The Queensland Police have blocked roads on several streets in the southern side of Brisbane as the police hunt a man who is believed to be armed.
According to the police, the operation started when there were claims of a suspicious man who could be armed. Police responded to the scenes to search for the individual.
Residents were asked to keep away from the area as the search mission continued. There were no reports of injuries at the time of going to press.
The action took place around a series of residential streets close to main routes for commuters which resulted in diversions throughout peak hours.
Police cars, dog units and riot police were noticed patrolling the area while helicopters swept over residential areas and parklands nearby.
The caution taken by the police in this case has been attributed to their priority of ensuring public safety.
The Queensland Police have clarified that they would continue to maintain cordons in the area until they were satisfied that there would be no risk to the public.
People in the surrounding homes where the incident occurred have been advised to stay inside their houses.
Local schools and childcare centres were put on notice, some decided to keep children inside during breaks.
Various small businesses within the exclusion zone were either unable to open or had been asked to close temporarily adding to disruption for workers and customers.
The police did not confirm the type of weapon allegedly involved or whether the man was known to authorities for operational reasons.
They added that there was no indication of terrorism or a broader threat beyond the immediate search area.
The incident revived community safety concerns and response times for residents particularly in densely populated suburbs where major roads sit parallel to shopping strips and schools.
Criminologists note that armed person searches are considered high risk events even when details are limited due to the rapid escalation possible in such a situation.
Members of the opposition said the event underscored the need for proper support of the police and proper communication with the public in the event of emergencies.
The government supports the actions of the police stating that the public should not rely on information provided on social media.
However, roads were progressively reopened in the late afternoon as the search zone was reduced by police.
But residents were encouraged to be patient in case roads are closed again if the need arises before embarking on a journey.
Police have asked that if anyone has any information or footage from the area during the described timeframe to come forward to Crime Stoppers.
Currently, a search is still underway with updates to follow when it is safe to give them.
