Subject: backpacker warning
Northern Territory police have arrested a 17-year-old boy over the alleged sexual assault of two European tourists in Alice Springs early yesterday morning.
The two women were sleeping in their car in Mount Johns when they were attacked by three Aboriginal men who broke into their car, police say.
Commander Michael Murphy said the men allegedly forced the women to have sex with them.
"One of the males was armed with what has been described as a rifle. Money and tobacco was also stolen from the victims," Commander Murphy said.
The men fled in another car and evaded police patrols on at least two occasions but Commander Murphy is now confident of more arrests in the coming hours and days.
"We are methodically working through all avenues of enquiry to identify the offenders," Commander Murphy said in a statement this morning.
"I urge those involved, you know who you are, to hand yourselves in now as we will find you."
NT opposition families and children spokeswoman Robyn Lambley said the assaults were shocking and a concern for anybody living in Alice Springs.
"The incident will press a nerve with every Alice Springs resident and raise issues about the safety of all women in the town," she said.
"This is an appalling example of lawlessness and will be widely viewed by potential overseas visitors to Alice Springs."
The car believed to be involved in the attack, a green Toyota Ascent with the registration plates WXD617, is still missing and police are urging people to contact police immediately if it is