Cops warn of petrol, aerosol sniffing resurgence in remote NT

TERRITORY police say there has been a spike in the number of youths petrol and aerosol sniffing in parts of East Arnhem

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TERRITORY police say there has been a spike in the number of youths petrol and aerosol sniffing in parts of East Arnhem.

Senior Sergeant Michael Milde said there had been an increase in reported volatile substance abuse in Galiwinku over recent months.

“Police are working with other government and non-government agencies to address this, and have referred some young people to support services,” he said.

A former Galiwinku health worker, who wished to remain anonymous, said petrol and aerosol sniffing was “out of control” and fuelling the community’s property crime problems.

“Many service providers are facing staffing challenges with employees resigning, fearful of the unsafe state of community,” she said.

“The health clinic ambulance has recently been the target of rock throwing and being mobbed by groups of youths.”

“Considering the recent Coroners Inquest into VSA (Volatile Substance Abuse) from October 2020 with findings delivered December 2020, I am fearful it’s only a matter of time until another death occurs.”

Health Minister Natasha Fyles said the government had been working to improve its responsiveness to matters involving vulnerable young people and communities experiencing volatile substance abuse

“Following the recent coronial into the tragic deaths of three young people a range of cross government actions are being undertaken in response to the Coroners recommendations,” she said.

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“NT Health is strengthening the capacity of the Office of the Chief Health Officer for monitoring compliance including assessment and treatment plans.”

Sgt Milde said they were aware of the recent rock throwing incident and encouraged community members to report any incidents.

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