Strike Force Trident have arrested multiple people across the Darwin Greater Region after several stolen motor vehicle incidents and pursuits.
In the early hours of Wednesday 23 August, a Mitsubishi Lancer was stolen from a residence in Nightcliff. Later that morning, the vehicle was located by members from Strike Force Trident on Paterson Street, Malak and a pursuit initiated.
A tyre deflation device was successfully deployed on Parer Drive before the vehicle continued onto Lee Point Road heading towards the Casuarina Costal Reserve. The vehicle eventually came to a stop on Lee Point Road, Muirhead, where all 3 youth within the vehicle were arrested without incident.
All have since been charged with multiple property offences.
In a separate incident, at around 3am yesterday, a large group of offenders entered a carpark in Eaton with the intention of stealing vehicles. Multiple vehicles were damaged and 3 vehicles were stolen.
Eight offenders, aged between 15 and 21, were arrested with 5 being charged by Detectives from Strike Force Trident for property offences. Three will be dealt with under the provisions of the Youth Justice Act 2005. This incident remains under investigation with further charges expected.
Earlier today, Strike Force Trident received information that a recently stolen vehicle was being driven around the rural area. This vehicle and its occupants had been involved in multiple incidents overnight including an incident in Coolalinga where they fired an arrow at one male and chased a second male who had disturbed them looking through vehicles in a unit complex.
The vehicle was followed out of Darwin by members from Strike Force Trident, the Dog Operations Unit and Darwin Traffic Operations with a pursuit being initiated as the vehicle approached Adelaide River.
Tyre Deflation Devices were used on the vehicle which came to a stop in the Adelaide River Township a short time later. Five males, aged between 15 and 22, were arrested and remain in custody whilst investigations continue.
Detective Acting Senior Sergeant Dale Motter-Barnard said “Strike Force Trident is on the frontline when it comes to combating property crime throughout the Darwin Region and these arrests and subsequent charges show the dedication of police in keeping our communities safe.
“Stolen vehicles, particularly in the hands of youth, are incredibly dangerous and thankfully all these incidents were resolved safely, a testament to the officers involved.
“We continue to urge the public report any incident of vehicle theft or dangerous driving through to police on 131 444 or Triple Zero in an emergency, as fast accurate information is how we get fast results.
“If you have any information on any of these incidents you are also urged to make contact. Anonymous can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or their online portal .