NT Police are searching for a machete-wielding man who broke into an Alice Springs residence on Saturday afternoon and threatened a resident before fleeing the scene.

Police issued a call for public information more than 48 hours after the incident on Monday afternoon.

No description of the suspect was provided.

A statement said police were notified that an unknown man had broken into a Standley Crescent residence in Gillen around 12:20pm Saturday afternoon.

“When confronted by a resident, the offender has threatened the resident with a machete before fleeing the scene,” the statement said.

“Detectives from Southern Investigations are urging residents in the area to review their CCTV for suspicious behaviour and to contact police on 131 444. Please quote reference 10497937.”

Police said anyone with information could also report it through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.