The Northern Territory Police Force are investigating after a vehicle was stolen and an alleged citizen’s arrest occurred in Mataranka.

Around 8:40pm on Friday 8 August 2025, the Joint Emergency Service Communications Centre received reports of multiple vehicles driving dangerously throughout Mataranka.

A short time later, police attended the Mataranka Truck Bay where they located a 16-year-old male being restrained by members of the community, with an alleged stolen motor vehicle located nearby.  

The youth was conveyed to the local clinic for assessment, where it was found that a pre-existing injury he had suffered required further treatment.

The youth was transferred to Royal Darwin Hospital, where he currently remains.

The exact circumstances of the alleged vehicle theft, dangerous driving and citizens arrest remains under investigation and police are urging anyone who witnessed the events, or who has information, to make contact on 131 444 or anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.