Youths smash up Palmerston cafe, library in broad daylight, terrifying staff and onlookers
FOUR youths arrested for allegedly smashing up a Palmerston cafe and the library in broad daylight — terrifying staff and onlookers — will be considered for youth diversion. SEE the SHOCKING VIDEO here
Northern Territory
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FOUR youths will be considered for youth diversion after they were allegedly involved in smashing up a Palmerston cafe and the library.
A group of youths wreaked havoc yesterday afternoon in the Palmerston CBD, smashing the windows of Mosko’s Market while terrified patrons and staff were barricaded inside, a witness said.
Police also allege a security guard was assaulted.
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Police have called it a “serious incident” and have arrested four of the youths involved.
The girls, one aged 13 and three aged 14, were arrested at the scene yesterday in relation to the incident.
They are being considered for youth diversion for the offences of assault a worker, damage to property, and going armed in public.
A police spokesman said windows and furniture had been damaged during the afternoon rampage.
The incident started just after 2pm when the youths allegedly began to smash the cafe shopfront.
Police also received a number of calls from members of the public and viewed the incident on CCTV.
Vision of the incident has also been circulated widely on social media.
The police spokesman said it was going to be a protracted investigation.
Commander Matt Hollamby said the behaviour of the group was distressing and unacceptable.
“The conduct of this group clearly affected the amenity of the community,” Cdr Hollamby said.
“Businesses and their customers should not be subjected to the criminal behaviour exhibited by this group.
“Police have increased patrols in the area and will maintain a presence to reassure the public that their daily activities will not be affected by behaviour witnessed yesterday.
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“These youths are being considered for diversion and NT Police will work with the NT Government agencies to try to ensure there is not a repeat of yesterday’s incident.”