Neptune NT security guard stood down after alleged bashing in Palmerston

A Top End security company has responded after video footage of one of its workers allegedly grabbing a man by the throat went viral.

A security officer involved in an alleged bashing at a Palmerston bar has been stood down.

In a video being circulated on social media, the Neptune NT employee can be seen allegedly grabbing a patron around the throat at the Landmark on Friday night.

The patron appeared to be yelling at the security officer before the incident, who responded by grabbing the man by the throat and pushing him against a wall, bending him backwards over it.

The employee quickly released the man, who fell face-down on the pavement.

In a second video, the same employee could be seen allegedly pushing another patron over in the carpark before dragging him.

A Neptune NT security officer was filmed allegedly assaulting a Landmark patron. Picture: Facebook

Neptune NT chief operating officer Joshua Bond said the employee had been stood down “pending further investigation”.

“The behaviours demonstrated by this employee during these incidents is unacceptable and in no way align with the values and expectations Neptune NT,” he said.

A Neptune NT security officer was filmed allegedly assaulting a Landmark patron. Picture: Facebook

Landmark@Gateway said patron safety is the venue’s highest priority and apologised for Friday evening’s events.

“We are saddened and extremely disappointed by the behaviour and actions of one of our contracted Neptune Security guards involved in two incidents on the evening of Friday February 17,” a spokesperson said.

“Whilst there were extenuating circumstances that preceded these events on the evening, the actions and response of the security guard were completely inexcusable and violence will not be tolerated.”

A Neptune NT security officer was filmed allegedly assaulting a Landmark patron. Picture: Facebook

Concerned Territorians took to Facebook to share their disgust over the video.

“This is nothing new but hopefully something is done this time before someone gets seriously injured or killed,” one wrote.

“Perhaps someone needs to educate these security people that their job is to protect, provide a safe environment for all patrons, RSA, and to de-escalate situations.

“Not just smashing people.”

“That’s too far,” another wrote.

“If you can’t handle a drunk person in your face without bringing forward that sort of physical contact, you need to check your anger management and remember you are security, to make sure people are safe.

“Not to push your big chest around.

“He hit the ground like a tonne of bricks and you let him fall like a rag doll.”

Police said the 29-year-old pub-goer suffered facial injuries after the alleged assault, and was taken to hospital for treatment.

Police on Monday said a 36-year-old bouncer was arrested following the alleged assault at Landmark @ Gateway.

Detective Senior Sergeant Annette Cooper said police were aware footage of the incident was circulating online.

“Police would like to speak to anyone who witnessed the incident or who has footage of the assault,” she said.

“Please contact police on 131 444 or via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

“Please quote reference number 10265444.”