Police are seeking witnesses following a stolen motor vehicle and dangerous driving incident that occurred in Wadeye yesterday afternoon.
At 4pm, police received reports of an aggravated robbery in the community. It is alleged two adult males stopped a white Toyota Hilux by standing in front of it as it travelled along the road. The offenders allegedly threatened the driver, took the keys from the ignition, forcibly removed the driver from the vehicle, and stole the Hilux.
The victim was uninjured.
The Hilux allegedly drove dangerously at speed throughout the community, including driving through fences of residential premises, causing property damage, performing burn outs, and forcing pedestrians to flee from its path. No injuries were reported to police.
During the incident, the Hilux allegedly drove directly towards an unmarked police vehicle, forcing officers to take evasive action, before it collided with the rear bumper and tyre of the police vehicle. The offenders attempted to flee the scene, but lost control, resulting in the Hilux crashing into the fence of the police station causing minor damage.
Both male offenders, aged 27 and 41, were uninjured and arrested at the scene as they attempted to flee on foot. They are currently being held in custody while investigators gather evidence, and are expected to be charged with Aggravated Robbery, Recklessly Endanger Life, Acts Intended to Cause Serious Harm, Criminal Damage and Resist Police.
The two police officers suffered minor injuries and were assessed at the local clinic. The police vehicle sustained moderate damage.
Officer in Charge of the Wadeye Police Station Acting Senior Sergeant Mark Seiler said, “This was dangerous, reckless, and completely unacceptable behaviour.
“It is pure luck that no one was seriously injured or killed as a result of the actions of these offenders.
“Once again police have been targeted while performing their duty to serve and protect the community, and I am thankful the members involved were not seriously hurt.
“We believe there were several witnesses to the incident, including people who may have captured mobile phone footage, and we urge them to attend their local police station or contact police on 131 444.”
