A 28-year-old Palmerston man was arrested at a Bakewell home for allegedly grooming a 13-year-old online and related child abuse material offences, NT Police said.

The police said the arrest by the Joint Anti-Child Exploitation Team (JACET) followed a search warrant executed by the police and the AFP, prompted by intelligence from the Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation (ACCCE).

During the search, police reportedly discovered evidence on various electronic devices, which included material connected to child abuse offences found on encrypted applications and AI-generated chat platforms.

“Police received information alleging the man had been grooming a 13-year-old child online, prompting an immediate investigation by the Joint Anti-Child Exploitation Team,” Detective Acting Senior Sergeant Mark Cronin said.

“Searches of electronic devices allegedly uncovered evidence of child abuse material across encrypted platforms and AI-generated chat applications.”

The suspect has been charged with several offences related to child abuse material, including possessing or controlling child abuse material; two counts of using a carriage service to transmit child abuse material; using a carriage service to access child abuse material; and two counts of producing child abuse material for distribution through a carriage service.

“Offenders cannot hide behind technology or anonymous online platforms,” Snr Sgt Cronin said.

“Working alongside our national and international partners, we will continue identifying, investigating and prosecuting those who seek to exploit our children.”

AFP Detective Acting Superintendent Pixie Fuhrmeister said that the combined efforts of JACET, along with its partners in the Commonwealth, State, Territory, and international law enforcement, is essential for safeguarding children from harm.

“Anyone preying on children online should not think the internet provides them anonymity or protection from real-world consequences. Children deserve safety, dignity and protection — and the AFP and its law enforcement partners remain committed in its pursuit of anyone involved in online child exploitation,” Supt Fuhrmeister said.

The suspect has been remanded to appear in Darwin Local Court on August 18.