{
  "id": 12106180,
  "title": "More than 5,000 pepper spray canisters sold in the NT since start of trial",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/05/more-than-5-000-pepper-spray-canisters-sold-in-the-nt-since-start-of",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-10-05T08:20:28.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "ABC News AU",
    "slug": "abc-news-au",
    "url": "https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-10-05/nt-oc-spray-trial-report-data-shows-thousands-of-purchases/107229232"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Since the start of the Northern Territory's trial to legalise the personal use of pepper spray, more than 5,000 canisters have been sold, according to a recent community reference group (CRG) report. This figure represents sales to 3,714 individuals since the trial began in September 2025, with 69 canisters confiscated by police. The report found that while there were no major community concerns, the public needed more information on the safe use and storage of the product. The trial, which was set to end at the end of August, has been extended until December 31. The NT Police Force has recorded nine instances of OC spray use, with three of those not being in self-defence. One of those instances resulted in charges for unlawful use. Only eight people have been charged with making false declarations or unlawful possession of the spray. To qualify for purchase, individuals must be over 18 and have no criminal history or court orders. The CRG report noted a need for clear and consistent public information, particularly around the safe handling of the product. Superintendent Ian Kennon stated that police were currently satisfied with the trial, with over 98% of purchasers adhering to the trial's conditions. The trial, which is the only one of its kind in the country, faced criticism when it started, with more than 20 organizations warning of potential escalation of violent incidents.",
  "summary": "A report on the sale and use of pepper spray for self-defence in the Northern Territory under a government trial has found 3,714 people have bought the product so far, with 46 prohibited buyers identified and three non-lawful deployments recorded.",
  "key_points": [
    "Over 5,000 pepper spray canisters sold in NT since trial began in September 2025",
    "3,714 individuals purchased canisters, 69 confiscated by police",
    "Trial extended until December 31, with focus on safe use and storage information"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}