In the internal broadcast, seen by the NT Independent, the assistant commissioner warns officers about their personal safety because of “commentary on social media” about police involvement in the shooting.

Police would not confirm the identify of the man shot in Palmerston Tuesday morning but said he was an Indigenous man.

“Members should be mindful of their personal security, especially while in uniform,” Mr White wrote.

“It would be prudent for members to speak with their families about potential adverse reactions, and for them to not be alarmed, but to be alert and cautious when in public settings.

“Member should maintain vigilance in their duties, and be aware of community sensibilities.

“In response to this heightened risk, additional operational supports have been deployed to ensure the safety of the members and their families.

“The need for additional support into the future is continually being monitored, and additional resource deployment is being assessed.

“Operation Lambert has been established in response to this incident, and is operating from Nightcliff Police Station, which we work to provide members with ongoing updates throughout its duration.”

He said senior staff were available to talk to, and he attached a personal security guide, which he said offered members and their families advice for protecting themselves.

About 9am, NT Police officers shot a man after he allegedly confronted police with a spear in Palmerston, police sources have told the NT Independent.

A police source warned there would be potential “payback” in Palmerston against police following the man’s death.

The shooting comes in the week the murder trial of NT Police Constable Zachary Rolfe is expected to come to an end in Darwin. Cst Rolfe was charged with murder over the shooting death of Kumanjayi Walker in Yuendumu in 2019, while officers tried to arrest him.

Police sources have told the NT Independent NT Police have stationed an additional eight officers in Yuendnumu already and members of the Territory Response Group have been stationed in Alice Springs, in case of violence following the verdict.

A source in the NT Fire Service said fire fighters have also been stationed in Yuendumu for the same reason.