Top End crime: ‘Substantial’ amount of booze and bud seized in Daly River region

A roadblock has led to the seizure of a ‘substantial’ amount of drugs and alcohol, with one man arrested and another at large. Read the details.

The Northern Territory Police Force has seized a substantial amount of alcohol and illicit drugs intended for distribution within remote communities in the Daly River region. Picture: NT Police

Welcome to the NT News’ weekly Top End rolling police, crime, traffic, fire and breaking news blog. Keep up with the latest in the Top End – from Katherine to Darwin, West Daly, Arnhem Land and the Tiwi Islands.

January 13, 6am: NT Police said officers seized a “substantial amount of alcohol and illicit drugs” after setting up a roadblock on Daly River Access Road late on Saturday night.

The haul was bound for remote communities where police allege it would be sold.

During the roadblock, police reported two vehicles failed to stop, leading them to spike the vehicles with tyre deflation devices.

In the first vehicle, police said they discovered six ounces of marijuana, six one litre bottles of spirits, two cartons of beer and two bottles of wine.

The 24-year-old driver was charged with multiple driving, drug and alcohol offences and he remains in police custody.

The driver of the second vehicle reportedly fled into nearby bushland and he is yet to be apprehended.

In his vehicle police uncovered 11 one litre bottles of spirits, a 10-pack of mixers and two cans of beer.

The haul from the second vehicle where the driver fled into bushland. Picture: NT Police

Acting Superintendent Erica Gibson labelled the conduct of the alleged offenders “disgraceful behaviour”.

“We know the harm that illicit drugs and alcohol cause to our communities,” Superintendent Gibson said.

“I commend the excellent work of police to intercept these vehicles before they could reach their destinations.”

Motorcyclist crashes into dog in Leanyer

January 13, 6am: A motorcyclist is reported to have crashed into a dog in Leanyer on Sunday night.

St John NT Territory Response manager Craig Garraway said the incident occurred about 11.30pm, with the 35-year-old man transported to Royal Darwin Hospital suffering leg and arm injuries.

The motorcyclist is reportedly in a stable condition.

The fate of the dog remains unknown.