A 55-year-old man has been charged for allegedly raping a female who fell asleep at his Malak residence on Saturday evening, NT Police said, with the female later escaping and seeking help from people in the area who called police.

Police received a call about the alleged sexual assault around 7:40pm Saturday evening, indicating the man knew the female.

“It is alleged that the victim was asleep at the offender’s residence when she woke to the offence occurring,” NT Police media director Mark Wilton said in a statement.

“Following the incident, the victim was able to flee the residence and seek assistance from people nearby, who contacted police.”

Police did not disclose the age of the victim or how she was known to the man.

The man was later located, arrested and charged with aggravated sexual intercourse without consent and breach of bail.

He was remanded to appear in Darwin Local Court on October 14.

“Police are urging anyone with information about the incident to make contact on 131 444 quoting reference number P25273138,” Mr Wilton said. “Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.”