Two men have been charged in connection with an incident at Sydney's Entertainment Quarter that led to widespread panic and a significant police response. The events unfolded on Monday afternoon when authorities were alerted to a man carrying what appeared to be a firearm in Moore Park.
Police converged on the area around 4:45 p.m., with officers in tactical gear surrounding two men as shoppers sought cover. The arrested individuals, aged 35 and 39, were found in possession of a replica firearm, a bulletproof vest, a fake police badge, plastic handcuffs, and a cardboard box labeled 'Hard Drugs' in marker pen.
During a search of the older man at Surry Hills Police Station, police reportedly found prohibited drugs. He has been charged with possession of a prohibited drug and is scheduled to appear in court on August 20. The 35-year-old man faces charges of possessing an unregistered, unauthorized pistol in a public place and behaving in an offensive manner. He was refused bail and will appear in court on Tuesday.
The incident prompted nearby restaurants and schools to enter lockdown. One witness described seeing a man approaching with what looked like a pistol taped to his chest, causing fear among onlookers. Videos of the police presence, with approximately 20 to 30 officers, were shared on social media.
The Moore Park entertainment precinct, located near Allianz Stadium and the Sydney Cricket Ground, encompasses cinemas, restaurants, bars, and shops.