Media release

Call for witnesses - Aggravated assault - Palmerston

Police

Northern Territory Police are calling for witnesses to an alleged aggravated assault which occurred at Palmerston Markets around time 7:30pm last night.

Police believe a 15-year-old female knocked a 12-year-old female to the ground and assaulted her prior to chasing her with an edged weapon. Unrelated bystanders intervened prior to police arrival and the 15-year-old was taken into police custody. The 12-year-old was conveyed to Palmerston Regional Hospital with facial injuries.

Assistant Commissioner Michael White has praised the actions of the bystanders and the quick response to the incident by police.

“Northern Territory Police have zero tolerance for this type of behaviour. The serious nature of this incident is extremely concerning, particularly because it occurred in a public place. Strike Force Orion, our multi-agency team, is responding to this incident as a matter of urgency to ensure every effort is made to prevent this type of incident occurring in the future.”

The 15-year-old is expected to appear at Darwin Youth Justice Court at a later date.

Anyone with information on this incident is asked to contact police on 131444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Please quote reference number 9109186.