Downing Centre evacuated in police operation in Sydney
One of Australia’s largest courts is being evacuated: ‘This is not a drill’
- Suspicious package found in Downing Center
- Court vacated and remains closed
- Police have set up an exclusion zone in CBD
One of Australia’s largest courts has been vacated and a massive police operation is underway.
Hundreds were evacuated from the Sydney Downing Center on Friday morning after reports that a suspicious package had been found in the complex.
There were reports of police telling people at the scene ‘this is not a drill’.
“The courthouse remains closed for the time being,” NSW District Court tweeted.
Dozens of cases that were supposed to be heard in court on Friday have been put on hold.
A major police operation is underway at the Downing Center in Sydney
Members of the public are seen evacuating the Downing Center Local Court following reports of a suspicious package
Bailiffs and sheriffs gathered at the x-ray machine in the foyer of the building.
Hundreds were evacuated as the six-story courthouse was overrun with police.
Court sheriffs and police on the scene declined to comment on the evacuation as officers in tactical gear entered the historic building.
Police officers gathered outside the courthouse to ensure court visitors were safely escorted from the building.
Dozens of police officers and forensic investigators dressed in white suits remain on the scene.
Police have set up an exclusion zone with road closures on busy Elizabeth, Goulburn and Liverpool streets in the Sydney CBD.
Delays are expected.
“The community is urged to avoid the area and follow police instructions,” a NSW Police statement read.
“More information will follow as soon as it becomes available.”
Police have set up an exclusion zone that has cordoned off several busy CBD streets
