Northern Territory police were “forced” to open fire on several crocodiles to stop them from attacking two men they were chasing in a on-foot pursuit.

On Friday, police travelled to a location near the town of Daly River, about 140 kilometres southwest of Darwin, to arrest four people.

Police said during the arrest, two of the individuals jumped into the Daly River — which is known for its significant crocodile population — to evade officers.

“NT police were forced to discharge a beanbag and live ammunition rounds in order to prevent charging crocodiles attacking the alleged offenders,” a police spokesman said.

“No crocodiles were injured, and the two offenders were lucky as they could have lost their lives as a result of their careless actions.”

Police estimate there were three crocodiles in the vicinity at that time, the sizes of which are not yet known.

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The wild events transpired after unrest in the Wadeye, Peppimenarti and Daly River communities over the past week.

Acting assistant commissioner Kylie Anderson said “the behaviour displayed by a small group of residents (was) completely unacceptable”.

“NT Police will continue to work with Elders, Traditional Owners and other community stakeholders in an effort to bring an end to these disturbances.”

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