Two boys, aged 13 and 15, have been charged for their alleged involvement in a reckless driving spree involving a group of up to seven youths in a stolen car in Katherine on Thursday night, NT Police said.

The NT News reported that Acting Assistant Commissioner James Gray-Spence alleged that the group of about seven young people, some hanging out of the windows, were in a stolen black Volkswagen that was speeding and swerving through the streets of Katherine on Thursday night.

He further alleged the hatchback was stolen about 12.50pm on Thursday from outside a business on Katherine Terrace while the owners were nearby and the keys were left inside the car. By 3pm, it had been reported being driven recklessly in Katherine South before being driven out of town

Police did not provide details of how long the youths drove the car for, or what they allegedly did but Mr Gray-Spence said police decided not to pursue the car because it was being driven dangerously and there were other motorists and pedestrians in the area.

“The behaviour displayed yesterday was extremely concerning and created an unacceptable risk to members of the Katherine community,” Mr Gray-Spence said.

“We understand the frustration this incident has caused. However, when assessing whether to pursue a vehicle, police must carefully balance enforcement action against the potential risk to innocent road users, pedestrians and the wider community.”

Mr Gray-Spence said the 13-year-old boy had been charged with stealing a vehicle, theft and driving a vehicle in a dangerous manner. He was also charged over the alleged unlawful use of another vehicle, which was allegedly stolen in July.

The 15-year-old boy has been charged with riding in a stolen vehicle and breaching bail.

Mr Gray-Spence said both were expected to appear in court at a later date and police were still trying to identify the other youths involved.

Police are asking anyone with information about those responsible to call 131 444 or Crime Stoppers anonymously on 1800 333 000.