Thousands attend ‘scary’, divisive meeting in Alice Springs over surge in crime

While some locals call for legal action against the NT government, others fear tension could stir racism and vigilante attacks

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A hostile meeting of about 3,000 in Alice Springs on Monday night has exposed deep division in the town, already reeling from a surge in crime and antisocial behaviour.

Alice Springs has become a flashpoint in recent weeks, with an increase in property crime and violence prompting new alcohol restrictions to be imposed.

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