Police are calling for public assistance after a 22-year-old woman was sexually assaulted in Alice Springs overnight.

It is alleged the woman was walking along Head Street at about 11:00pm when she was approached by a man known to her. A brief conversation ensued before the offender dragged the woman into a garden bed, at the corner of Angguna and Head Street, where he proceeded to punch her then sexually assault her.

It is believed two people walked past during the assault and disturbed the man causing him to flee the scene; Police are calling for those two people to come forward.

A 19-year-old man is currently in police custody assisting with enquiries.

Anyone who may have witnessed or heard suspicious behaviour in the area or may have further information, is urged to contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Rickie Scoot
8985 8837
0458 307 870