An 83-year-old resident was confronted in his Katherine house by three males who allegedly tried to break in while armed with blunt and edged weapons last Tuesday, and who are still on the run, NT Police said.

Police director of communications Mark Wilton said in a statement that about 11pm last Tuesday, police received a report the three unknown males allegedly tried to break into a house on Acacia Drive, Katherine, armed with blunt and edged weapons.

He said they encountered the 83-year-old occupant, who retreated inside the house, and after failing to break in, the three alleged offenders ran off.

Mr Wilton said the males were still on the run.

Police are asking anyone with information to call them on 131 444 (quote reference number NTP2400114646), or make an anonymous report by calling Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or through the Crime Stoppers website.