Northern Territory Police have arrested and charged a 45-year-old man after he was allegedly detected speeding while nearly five times the legal alcohol limit on Friday afternoon.

At around 5:45pm, members of the Darwin Traffic Operations Unit were conducting patrols near the intersection of the Stuart Highway and Townend Road in Livingstone when they detected a white Toyota Hilux allegedly travelling at 143km/h in a 110km/h zone.

Police intercepted the vehicle and the driver returned a positive roadside alcohol test.

He was arrested and taken to the Palmerston Watch House, where he returned a breath analysis reading of 0.248 per cent, almost five times the legal limit.

The man has since been charged with high-range drink driving and exceeding the speed limit. He is expected to appear in Darwin Local Court at a later date.

Senior Sergeant Dev Kanyilmaz said the alleged behaviour was extremely dangerous.

“Twenty-six lives have already been lost on Territory roads this year. How many more will be lost before the end of the year because people continue to make reckless decisions behind the wheel?

“Driving at 143km/h while nearly five times the legal alcohol limit puts every person on the road at risk.

“There is no excuse for drink driving. If you plan to drink, plan how you will get home before you start. Arrange a lift, use a taxi or rideshare service, or stay where you are.”