Northern Territory Police have arrested a 17-year-old male in relation to a series of serious property offences across Palmerston, following a targeted operation by Strike Force Trident.
Police will allege the teenager was involved in multiple unlawful entries throughout the Palmerston region, including an incident yesterday morning where he allegedly forced entry into a residence in Moulden by smashing through the front door, stealing the occupant’s car keys before fleeing in her vehicle.
Strike Force Trident detectives along with Dog Operations Unit officers deployed and were able to locate the stolen vehicle travelling along the Stuart Highway in Berrimah.
Police undertook a covert deployment of tyre deflation devices, successfully rendering the vehicle undrivable. The vehicle came to a stop on the median strip, and the teenager attempted to flee on foot before being quickly apprehended by members of Strike Force Trident and the Dog Operations Unit.
The 17-year-old was arrested without incident and has since been charged with:
- Aggravated Burglary Dwelling x3
- Theft x3
- Attempted Burglary
- Drive Motor Vehicle Without Consent
- Drive in a Dangerous Manner During a Pursuit
- Drive with a Medium Range Blood Alcohol Concentration
- Drive with a Drug in Blood
Investigations remain ongoing, with detectives continuing to examine the youth’s alleged involvement in further offending.
Detective Senior Sergeant Darren Burns said the arrest reflected Strike Force Trident’s ongoing commitment to targeting repeat offenders and protecting the community.
“This youth was a known high-risk target to police, having previously come to our attention in Tennant Creek, and we will allege he has been actively committing offences in Darwin over the past two weeks.
“No Territorian should feel unsafe in their own home. For the victim involved, having someone force entry into her house and steal her vehicle would have been an extremely confronting experience.
“Strike Force Trident will continue to proactively target repeat offenders and hold those responsible for property crime to account.”
The 17-year-old was remanded to appear before court today.
