Alice Springs: Operation Munster efforts leads to eight arrests

Police have arrested a group of males following the Red Centre riot which caught the nation’s attention.

Operation Munster was initiated after locals in Alice Springs rioted. Pictures - Supplied

Eight people have been arrested following the shocking riot that shook Alice Springs last week.

On Tuesday March 26, terrified residents watched as up to 150 people rioted through the streets of the troubled town.

Within 24 hours of the riot, Chief Minister Eva Lawler announced a 14-day curfew would be in effect between the hours of 6pm and 6am.

On Saturday, NT Police confirmed that eight males had been arrested, with five charged, as part of Operation Munster.

A 16 year-old was charged with engaging in violent conduct, criminal damage and aggravated assault.

A 17 and 18 year-old have been charged with engaging in violent conduct and criminal damage.

A second 18 year-old was charged with engaging in violent conduct, criminal damage, aggravated assault and going armed in public.

Finally, a 22 year-old was charged with going armed in public and failing to comply with an order related to a riot.

Regional Controller, Assistant Commissioner Peter Kennon said police efforts would take a “common sense” approach following the riot.

“We are continuing to undertake a commonsense approach to the conditions of the emergency situation,” he said.

“Young people may be engaged and directed to leave the High Risk Area if they don’t have a valid reason for being there, such as attending a job.”

Additional resources arrived in Alice Springs and police are patrolling not just the HRA, but the wider suburbs. Mr Kennon said police would concurrently target road safety throughout the Easter long weekend.

“Police Officers will be posted at all licensed takeaway alcohol premises across Alice Springs during opening hours and during the emergency situation, while also supporting the national Easter road safety campaign across the region,” he said.

“Generally, government agencies and our Non-government partners will be providing a response in the High Risk Area, including coordination and attendance at a range of planned school holiday activities to ensure that young people can safely attend scheduled events.”