Sydney’s Downing Centre courthouse evacuated over a bomb threat after the arrival of a suspicious parcel. Image Credit: Sardaka via Wikimedia Commons
Sydney’s Downing Centre courthouse evacuated over a bomb threat after the arrival of a suspicious parcel.
It is believed that a man entered the ground level and left a “suspicious package” at reception on Friday morning.
Sources inside the court complex claim he told staff “this is a bomb” before leaving.
An evacuation order was issued shortly after.
Those at the scene were told it was a potential bomb threat and “not a drill.”
Police lead an operation that shut down parts of the city and saw hundreds safely escorted to Hyde Park.
“The Sydney Downing Centre has been evacuated and a police operation is underway. The court building remains closed for the time being,” NSW District Court tweeted.
The community was asked to avoid the area as road closures were set up on Liverpool, Elizabeth, and Goulburn streets in the Sydney CBD.
The rescue and bomb disposal unit were seen entering the six-storey complex wearing tactical gear.
Dozens of court proceedings were put on hold.
By 11am, NSW Police declared the package safe and that there was “no risk to the public.”
Roads have since reopened and jurors, lawyers, and members of the public were allowed back into the building.
Specialist officers remained on the scene to help inspect bags.
Police will continue to investigate and are in the process of reviewing CCTV footage to identify the man involved.
NSW police statement read, “Investigations are underway into the circumstances surrounding the incident.”
Anyone with information is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
This comes just 5 days after a bomb threat shut down Westfield Penrith, a major Sydney shopping centre.
Under similar circumstances, a suspicious package was left out the front of the Coles Supermarket.
The public are now permitted to return to both locations.
