The Northern Territory government has declared an emergency situation in Alice Springs after violent unrest following the funeral of an 18-year-old man.

The territory’s Chief Minister Eva Lawler announced a two-week curfew requiring youths under 18 to stay out of the town’s CBD in order to stop gatherings.

The curfew, which will apply between 6pm and 6am, was put in place after videos and photos were posted to social media, showing dozens of people throwing bricks and attempting to break the door of a local pub, The Todd Tavern.

In a press conference on Wednesday afternoon, Lawler recognised the community frustrations about the recent youth crime.

“The community have had enough and so have I,” she said.

“We want Alice Springs to be a safe place.”

Minister for Police Brent Potter said that they are responding to unacceptable and abhorrent behaviours to make the town a better place.

“The Territory Safety Division has a 23-strong team in Alice Springs right now conducting operations to apprehend all involved in the unrest, these officers will be supported by another 58 police on their way to Alice Springs right now,” he said.

“This is not just a policing issue, we must collaborate with community leaders to keep Alice Springs safe.”

The 18-year-old was killed when the alleged stolen car he was travelling in, had rolled over on March 8.

There will be no criminal penalty for breaking the curfew.

Photo: Alice Springs the gap.jpg by Kendra Baker is available HERE and is used under a Creative Commons Licence. This image has not been modified.