Yesterday evening, the Northern Territory Government declared an emergency situation for the area described as the "High-Risk Area—Alice Springs Precinct."
The declaration intends to impose a youth curfew in the High-Risk Area that will apply to any youth (under 18 years of age) and be active from 6:00pm each evening to 6:00am the following morning every day for the next 14 days.
Should a youth not have a reasonable excuse for being in the High-Risk Area (employment, youth-related activities, in the company of a responsible adult) during curfew hours, they will be directed to leave and remain outside the High-Risk Area for the remainder of the operative period. Should the youth fail to comply with the directions to leave and remain outside the area, they may be committing an offence. Should the youth continue to fail to comply, the provisions of the Youth Justice Act 2005 should apply.
The curfew is in addition to existing legislative provisions in the Care and Protection of Children Act 2007.
Furthermore, Police Auxiliary Liquor Inspectors are mobilising to cover all bottle shops in Alice Springs for the next 14 days. Additionally, Operation Munster successfully apprehended the main offender involved in Tuesday afternoon's incident at the Todd Tavern. The 17-year-old male is currently in police custody and is expected to face charges later today. Investigations into the matter remain ongoing.
Acting Deputy Commissioner Martin Dole reported a successful first night of curfew enforcement, with no individuals apprehended for violating the curfew. However, addressing this issue requires a collective effort beyond law enforcement.
"We call upon the senior leadership of our community members to join forces with us in combating the wanton destruction plaguing Alice Springs.
"We urge all residents to familiarise themselves with the designated areas on the map and engage in conversations with youths to ensure adherence to the curfew.
"Your cooperation over the forthcoming 14 days is crucial and deeply appreciated. Together, we can safeguard our community and foster a safer environment."
