Northern Territory police have ordered another snap lockdown in Alice Springs after a series of incidents, including the alleged assault of four off-duty officers by a group of about 20 youths.
The curfew in this inland city will last from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. for three days and will apply to adults and children.
Northern Territory Police Commissioner Michael Murphy announced the curfew on Monday following the incident on Sunday morning.
It is the second time this year that a curfew has been imposed in Alice Springs, following a 14-day lockdown around Easter after 150 people allegedly rioted in the streets.
During their walk, the four off-duty police officers – three women and one man – were allegedly approached from behind by a group of about 20 young men who proceeded to assault them.
One of the off-duty officers was thrown to the ground and her purse was allegedly stolen.
Another woman was allegedly punched in the face and kicked several times before her mobile phone was taken away.
The off-duty officer was also punched and kicked multiple times.
Northern Territory police have imposed another curfew in the town of Alice Springs
The four off-duty officers returned to their accommodation where they contacted the police.
Two of the women were taken to Alice Springs Hospital for treatment of minor injuries.
Police are urging anyone who witnessed the incident or has information to come forward.
Under laws introduced in May, the Northern Territory’s police commissioner has the power to declare 72-hour lockdowns to respond to “public disorder”.
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