The Northern Territory Police Force has arrested an 18-year-old male after he assaulted police while being taken into custody in Alice Springs earlier today.

Around 12:25pm, members from Strike Force Viper observed the 18-year-old male as being in breach of a suspended sentence in the Todd Mall in the Alice Springs CBD.

Additional police units deployed to the area to assist in arresting the offender. Upon police approach, he allegedly ran into a nearby restaurant and armed himself with a blunt weapon. Police evacuated the patrons and staff before the offender surrendered after a brief negotiation period.

While being taken into custody, the male allegedly kicked one of the police members to the leg. The member did not require medical attention.

The 18-year-old was taken to the Alice Springs Hospital for assessment, and remains in police custody with charges expected to follow.