Shirtless man wielding a large knife sparks lockdown at botanic gardens in major Aussie city
A popular city park was swarmed by police after a man was seen holding a large hunting knife.
Officers from the Armed Special Emergency Response Team were called to Brisbane City Botanic Gardens just after 1.30pm on Tuesday after the weapon was spotted.
Visitors were escorted out of the park and entrances were closed while police negotiated with the armed man.
Officers arrested him after a tense three-hour standoff, in which it’s understood a Taser was deployed.
After the man was in custody an emergency declaration under the Public Safety Preservation Act was revoked.
The man was transported to hospital for assessment.
Police said no officers were harmed the armed man suffered minor injuries.
The area reopened shortly before 5pm.
Police spent three hours negotiating with a man (pictured) armed with a large knife in Brisbane City Botanic Gardens
Police reopened the gardens shortly before 5pm (pictured, officers at the scene)
Queensland Police said it is investigating the incident.
Anyone with information has been urged to contact Crime Stoppers.
