Northern Territory Police have charged a 13-year-old male over a string of property offences committed since the start of the year.

On 6 January 2023, the youth is alleged to have unlawfully entered a residence on Nightcliff Road, stealing two sets of car keys and one of the vehicles at the residence.

The vehicle was located the next day abandoned, with one set of keys still outstanding.

A month later, on 8 February, the youth returned to the same residence and stole a second vehicle using the keys that were outstanding.

On 13 February, the youth was identified through CCTV footage trespassing at several locations with a group of co-offenders at Bayview.

Strike Force Trident members executed a search warrant at the offender's residence at Millner on 14 February, where the keys to the second stolen vehicle were located, as well as a second set of keys. The offender was not at the residence at the time.

Yesterday, Strike Force Trident members and the Dog Operations Unit coordinated an arrest plan and the youth was arrested after a short foot pursuit in an alleyway near his residence.

He was taken to Palmerston Watch House and charged with:

• Aggravated Unlawful Use of Motor vehicle
• Stealing
• Trespass x 4
• Attempt unlawful entry
• Damage to property
• Unlawfully possess property.

He was remanded to appear in court today.

Senior Sergeant Michael Lunney said “It was a great outcome from the coordinated response between Strike Force Trident and the Dog Operations Unit.”

Detective Senior Sergeant Mark Bland said “Police would like to remind everyone to Stop, Look and Lock.

“For more information on how to prevent opportunistic crime visit the Neighbourhood Watch NT website here.”

*MEDIA NOTE: body worn footage available upon request.