Northern Territory Police have arrested a 74-year-old man after he allegedly assaulted a police officer in Tennant Creek yesterday.

At 4.00pm, the offender was approached by a female police officer conducting point of sale intervention duties at a takeaway alcohol store on Paterson Street.

The offender was unable to provide the required identification needed to purchase takeaway alcohol, nor answer questions regarding the location the alcohol would be consumed. He was subsequently refused service and asked to leave the store.

The offender proceeded to allegedly strike the police officer to the face.

A store employee assisted in apprehending the offender, and the 74-year-old was arrested and conveyed to Tennant Creek watch house. He has since been charged with Assault police in relation to this incident and will appear in court on 30 July.

The police officer suffered minor injuries and received medical treatment at the Tennant Creek Police Station.

Detective Acting Senior Sergeant Marcus Becker said, “Our police officers work day and night to protect and serve Territorians, and it’s reprehensible that an officer has been assaulted while doing so.

“Every day police officers put themselves at risk in the line of duty, and I would like to acknowledge and thank the store employee for their assistance.

“This type of violent behaviour is completely unacceptable in our community, and we will continue to support the officer involved in this incident.”

Northern Territory Police urge anyone who witnesses crime or antisocial behaviour to contact 131 444, or 000 in an emergency. You can also report anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or through https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.