Man Charged After Threat to Sydney Media Outlet Over Bourke Street Incident
A 31-year-old man of no fixed address has been arrested and charged in Melbourne's central business district following a threat made to a Sydney media outlet regarding an incident on Bourke Street.
Incident Timeline
- A phone call was made to the Nine Network in Sydney, threatening an incident on Bourke Street.
- The media outlet contacted Crime Stoppers.
- Victoria Police identified a person of interest based on the threat.
- At 7:00 PM, Melbourne City Council sent a text message to its staff advising them to avoid the Bourke Street area due to "the possible threat of an incident occurring on Bourke Street tonight."
- Police located and arrested the man at a fast food restaurant on Swanston Street at approximately 7:30 PM.
"Police stated the arrest occurred without further incident."
Arrest and Charges
The man was arrested by Critical Incident Response Team officers and uniform police. He was allegedly carrying a knife at the time of arrest.
The man has been charged with the following offenses:
- Using a carriage service to menace
- Making threats to kill
- Making threats to inflict serious injury
- Carrying a controlled weapon without a lawful excuse
The man is currently being interviewed by police.
Police and Council Response
Victoria Police stated that the exact circumstances are under investigation and that there is no ongoing threat to the public. Inspector Dale Huntingdon said police deemed it unnecessary to issue a broader public alert.
"There is no ongoing threat to the public." – Victoria Police
The City of Melbourne stated that the text message to its staff was sent as a precaution following a credible warning from Victoria Police. The council said it makes no apologies for the decision. Inspector Huntingdon stated police would work with the council to understand why the message was sent.
Premier Jacinta Allan stated that police advised there was no broader threat to the community, and the council's decision was a matter for them.
Appeal for Information
Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or via www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.