Tradies in Wadeye stopped a group of animal management clinic staff having their vehicle carjacked by youths armed with weapons, including wooden planks and machetes, NT Police said.

NT Police communications director Mark Wilton said that about 5:30pm Tuesday police received reports that five employees from an animal management clinic were approached by a group of youths as they left the facility in their vehicle.

“The youths were allegedly armed with weapons, including wooden planks and machetes,” Mr Wilton said.

“One of the offenders opened the driver’s side door, threatened the driver with a machete, and demanded the vehicle keys. The victim complied and exited the vehicle.

“Employees at a nearby construction site observed the incident taking place and came to the aid of the victims, causing the group of offenders to flee the scene.”

Mr Wilton said police conducted patrols of the area and spoke with community members leading to the stolen keys being handed in, but the alleged offenders have not been caught.

Police are asking anyone with any information about the incident to call them on 131 444 (Quote reference number NTP2500052080), or make an anonymous report by calling Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or report through the Crime Stoppers website.