Unit break-in sparks dramatic arrests in Alice Springs

Up to eight police officers were involved in a series of dramatic arrests in Central Australia over the weekend. Read how the alleged thieves were stopped.

Dogs, a drone and tyre-deflation spikes were deployed in the arrest of two teenagers allegedly involved in the theft of a car in Alice Springs overnight.

Police said three people were involved in an unlawful entry at a unit at Mt Nancy apartments on the Stuart Highway in which a white Kia Cerato was stolen and driven through the unit complex carpark gate, forcing it from its hinges.

Watch Commander Senior Sergeant Tim Healey said the vehicle was driven dangerously throughout the CBD during the night and police activated a drone to track its movements.

At 2.15am police deployed tyre deflation spikes at the intersection of Winneckie Avenue and Undoolya Road.

Three people allegedly fled the vehicle and were pursued on foot by up to eight officers including two officers and dogs from the police canine unit and general duties’ members.

A 16-year-old and 18-year-old male were arrested and both are being held in custody pending bail applications expected later.

Police said inquiries were continuing in relation to a third person allegedly involved and were calling for witnesses in relation to the theft of the vehicle and its movements throughout Sunday morning.

Sergeant Healey said the good work by officers prevented the incident being more serious.

“It’s a positive result that neither the public or occupants suffered any serious injuries due to the manner of driving,” Sergeant Healey said.

Territory police first trialled tyre spikes in 2017 after a number of incidents of youths trying to evade police in stolen vehicles.