AusLeisure

Two turtles have been killed and another four injured following a break-in at the Crocosaurus Cove reptile park in Darwin overnight.

Northern Territory Police are appealing for information following the crime at the popular Darwin tourist attraction, indicating that two children, believed to be under the age of 10, were responsible having unlawfully entered the business at about 11.30pm on Wednesday.

They said the children had allegedly killed two turtles and injured four others, while a seventh animal remained unaccounted-for on Thursday.

Northern Territory Senior Sergeant Dale Motter-Barnard described the alleged behaviour as "shocking and completely unacceptable.

“Violence and cruelty in all forms has no place in our community.”

A Northern Territory Police spokesperson said detectives had attended the business and identified the point of entry as being over a railing from an adjacent venue, and investigations were ongoing.

Crocosaurus Cove Chief Executive Penny Priest described the break-in and "tragic death of two of our beloved Top End turtles" as "devastating".

In a statement, Priest advised “our dedicated team was heartbroken to discover the extent of the damage this morning.

"The injured animals are currently receiving care from our veterinary team.

"We are relieved to report that, so far, they are responding well to treatment and are expected to make a full recovery."

Priest said the business was actively cooperating with Northern Territory Police while "taking additional measures to reinforce security and support our staff through this distressing period".

She added “we would like to sincerely thank everyone who has reached out with messages of support and compassion.

"This has been an incredibly difficult time for our team and your kindness has been a source of comfort.

"We are committed to providing the best possible care for our animals and ensuring the safety of our facility."

Northern Territory Police are calling for anyone with information, especially those with CCTV in the area, to contact police or make an anonymous report via Crime Stoppers.

Crocosaurus Cove in Darwin's central business district is one of the city's most high-profile attractions. It is best known for its Cage of Death close-up crocodile encounter experience.

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