Police say two incidents occurred on Wednesday (24 December). Photo: Michelle Kroll.
Residents of a Molonglo suburb were told to stay inside during a police operation tonight.
ACT Policing officers were called to Whitlam on Wednesday evening (24 December) for an operation. Region understands the man may have been in possession of a firearm.
Police say it followed an incident earlier in the afternoon.
Just before 10 pm on Wednesday evening (24 December), a spokesperson said a 38-year-old man has been taken in custody.
“He has not been charged at this time and no other people are being sought by police,” the police spokesperson said.
“Some roadblocks are still in place and police remain on scene to conduct enquires.”
Police would not provide further details about their operation.
Earlier that evening, a spokesperson urged people to stay inside.
“Residents of Whitlam are advised to remain indoors and to please follow police direction as roadblocks are in place,” they said at about 8:30 pm.
“Anyone who is not returning to their homes is asked to avoid the area,” they said.
Meanwhile, Transport Canberra has also closed two bus stops amid the police operation.
Whitlam bus stops 2728 (Hazel Hawke Avenue before Jackonia Street) and 2729 (Hazel Hawke Avenue before Tahourdin Vista) have been closed.
Route 47 has also been diverted in both directions.
“For bus stop 2728, please use the alternative stop 2743 on Sculthorpe Avenue before Hazel Hawke Avenue,” a Transport Canberra Facebook post states.
“For bus stop 2729, please use the alternative stop 2744 on Sculthorpe Avenue at Niland Street.”
The ACT Policing spokesperson has assured the community there is no ongoing threat.
“We would like to thank the community for their patience and understanding while the police operation was undertaken.”
More to come.
