A 10-year-old boy who allegedly pulled off a $2000 cigarette heist with a group was arrested by police following a series of commercial and residential break and enters in Alice Springs over the weekend, NT Police said.

Authorities said a group of offenders allegedly broke into a store inside a shopping centre on Bath Street over the weekend where the cigarettes were allegedly stolen.

Strike Force Viper officers said they identified and arrested the 10-year-old boy as one of those involved in the crime and are still working to identify five other offenders allegedly involved.

NT Police did not mention if the massive quantity of cigarettes had been retrieved.

They also did not specify which day the break-in occurred.

Meanwhile, a 20 and 21-year-old were also nabbed after forcefully entering a house in Gillen on Sunday morning.

Police said the duo have been charged with one count each of damage to property, unlawful entry, stealing and possession of stolen property.

Police did not say what “property” had been stolen from the residence. The pair were scheduled to appear before a local court Monday.

A 16-year-old male was also arrested and charged for unlawfully entering a house in East Side, police said.

He faces charges of one count each of unlawful entry and damage to property and refused police bail.

NT Police also added that four of six vehicles which were stolen throughout the weekend have been recovered.

They said investigations continue to locate the two outstanding vehicles, but did not say if anyone is facing charges for the thefts.

Southern Region Commander Craig Laidler said it was a “difficult weekend for front line police”, who were already stretched thin in Alice.

“I’d like to thank the community for the assistance they have provided police during what was clearly a challenging weekend for front line police members,” said Cmdr Laidler.

“We’re fed up with the absolute disregard we continue to see and experience firsthand with youth and adult offenders who continue to show complete disregard and respect for our community, businesses and residences.

“It is extremely concerning to see offenders as young as 10 engaging in this type of offending.”