Serious Crime Detectives are investigating two separate assaults of a 39-year-old man at Casuarina yesterday afternoon.

Detective Senior Sergeant Annette Cooper said a 39-year-old man was approached by three males in the underground Woolworths car park at Casuarina Shopping Centre at around 5:45pm.

“Two of the males kicked and punched the victim, while the third offender stole a bottle of alcohol from the victim’s backpack. All three offenders were last seen heading towards Trower Road.

“The victim began walking in the opposite direction out of the Woolworths underground car park when a separate group of three males approached the victim and assaulted him.

“The victim was taken to Royal Darwin Hospital where he remains in a serious condition.

“Police arrested a 16-year-old male a short time later near the Casuarina bus exchange. He remains in Police custody and is assisting with enquires."

Police urge anyone who may have witnessed these incidents at Casuarina Shopping Centre yesterday afternoon, or who may have any further information, to contact Police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.