Major police operation underway as suspicious item is found at Sydney’s Jewish Museum

Visitors and staff at the Sydney Jewish Museum have been evacuated after a ‘suspicious item’ was discovered inside.

Emergency services were called to the museum on Darlinghurst Road in Darlinghurst, in Sydney’s CBD, just after 9.30am after the item was reportedly found on the first floor.

Fire and Rescue NSW Service Commander Michael Woodward told reporters a “substance” was found at the scene.

“The fabric has been made safe,” Woodward said.

Footage from the scene showed several fire engines and police vehicles parked outside the museum as about 50 people were evacuated to nearby Green Park.

Police officers were observed speaking to some evacuees, while firefighters and a hazardous materials removal team equipped with gas masks inspected the building.

An officer was spotted outside the museum leisurely holding a white box with yellow tape.

Mr Woodward said emergency services had carried out safety tests on the building and determined there was no ongoing danger.

New South Wales Police have now completed the operation, which also involved the rescue and bomb squad.

“The building was evacuated and after a search a substance was seized for further investigation,” a police statement said.

‘There are no reports of injuries and all roads are now open.’

Firefighters and a hazardous materials team equipped with gas masks (pictured) searched the building and found the substance which was later deemed safe

The Jewish Museum in Sydney confirmed the site is ‘open and operational’ after the operation.

“The Sydney Jewish Museum was briefly evacuated this morning, at the recommendation of NSW Police,” the statement read: 9News reports.

‘At no time was anyone in the museum in danger and the museum is grateful for the continued support of the security team and local police.

“The Sydney Jewish Museum remains a safe place for all staff, volunteers and visitors.”

More to come.