An intruder is still being sought after allegedly forcing entry to a Royal Australian Air Force installation in the Northern Territory, attacking a defence force member and escaping in a stolen vehicle.
The Department of Defence stated that on Monday afternoon, an individual "unlawfully gained access" to the base located in Winnellie, a suburb of Darwin. Following the breach, security personnel from RAAF Darwin, the Joint Military Police Unit, Northern Territory Police and the Australian Federal Police all responded to the incident. Base lockdown procedures and security protocols were immediately activated in response to the intrusion.
According to the Defence statement, the intruder allegedly assaulted a Defence Force member before departing the base in a stolen vehicle. Northern Territory Police, who are directing the investigation, confirmed they responded to the incident at approximately 4.30pm on Monday.
How did the pursuit unfold?
Officers tracked the stolen vehicle as it travelled approximately 15 kilometres from the base. The white Ford Ranger was subsequently observed heading south along the Stuart Highway, prompting police to initiate a pursuit. However, the chase was abandoned near Palmerston after law enforcement lost visual contact with the vehicle.
What is the current status of the investigation?
The individual responsible for the incident has not yet been identified by authorities. Police stated that investigations remain ongoing as they work to locate the offender and recover the stolen white Ford Ranger. The circumstances surrounding how the person gained access to the secure military facility and the nature of the assault on the Defence Force member have not been disclosed by authorities.
Northern Territory Police continue to appeal for information from the public that may assist in locating the suspect and the stolen vehicle.
