A man with a firearm prompted a lockdown in a residential neighborhood in Whitlam, Canberra. Residents were urged to stay indoors and comply with police directives following the incident that occurred at approximately 8:30 pm on Christmas Eve. Witnesses reported hearing police instructing an individual to drop the weapon on Hazel Hawkes Avenue.
Residents captured images and videos showing a significant police presence on Wednesday evening, with some officers seen brandishing firearms. Multiple police vehicles and at least two fire trucks were observed in the vicinity during the emergency response.
Subsequently, a 39-year-old man was apprehended by the police. Authorities confirmed that there is no longer a threat to the community.
A statement from ACT Policing stated, “An ACT Policing operation is in progress in Whitlam following an earlier incident. Residents are advised to stay indoors and adhere to police instructions as roadblocks have been set up. Those not returning home are urged to avoid the area until the situation is resolved. Updates will be provided to the community.”
A police spokesperson later disclosed, “The 39-year-old man involved in the Whitlam incident is under police custody. No charges have been brought against him at this time, and no other suspects are being pursued. Some roadblocks are still active, and police are continuing their investigations. We appreciate the community’s cooperation and understanding during the operation. There is no existing threat to public safety.”