A 38-year-old man was arrested at Ballina-Byron Gateway Airport in regional New South Wales on Monday following an incident involving a knife and a scuffle with police. The event began around 9:30 a.m. when authorities received reports of a man breaching terminal security.
Upon searching the individual, police allegedly discovered a knife and a saw. The man was initially issued a formal move-on direction and left the premises. However, he reportedly returned a short time later, leading to a physical altercation with officers. During the scuffle, a senior constable sustained minor injuries and required medical treatment.
The man was subsequently taken to Lismore Base Hospital, later discharged, and then transported to Lismore Police Station. He faces six charges, including destroying or damaging property valued at $2,000 or less, possessing a knife in a public place, and failing to comply with a direction. Additional charges include assaulting a police officer causing actual bodily harm, hindering or resisting police, and using an offensive weapon to prevent lawful detention.
The man was refused bail and is scheduled to appear in court on Tuesday.