Despite ongoing restrictions around alcohol sales in Darwin, NT Police have busted a grog run of 31 bottles of liquor allegedly destined for remote communities in the Victoria Daly region over the weekend and have pledged to track down the supplier.

The illicit booze supply was discovered in a traffic operation near Adelaide River on Friday October 2, targeting secondary supply, following an increase of alcohol in remote communities, Police Assistant Commissioner Michael Hebb said.

Asst Commissioner Hebb said the NT Police are undertaking investigations into where and how the alcohol was sourced, noting the emergency powers set out by the Director of Licensing for the Greater Darwin Area on alcohol restrictions.

The new restrictions require all buyers of booze to prove where they will be consuming the alcohol, in what police say is an effort to cut down on illegal grog finding its way into remote communities.

“Any licensees that are found to be supplying alcohol to customers who are unable to demonstrate their residences is within the Greater Darwin Area will face prosecution,” he said.

Asst Commissioner Hebb said he believes the seizing of alcohol can have a significant impact on lessening anti-social behaviour, physical harm, including domestic violence, and road related trauma across remote Northern Territory communities.

A 25-year-old male was issued a notice to appear in court for supplying and processing liquor in alcohol protected area and other traffic charges, while two others were issued with infringements for alcohol and drug related offences.

Police urge anyone with information on the supply of illicit substances to communities to contact police on 131 444 or anonymously via CrimeStoppers on 1800 333 000.