Franklin stand off ends with arrest

ACT Policing has arrested a 35-year-old Franklin man following a stand-off in Franklin last night (Thursday, 3 October 2019) which lasted several hours.

About 6pm police responded to a call reporting a disturbance in Franklin.

When officers arrived, they saw extensive damage to the house, and when they approached the residence, a man inside threatened to set the house on fire.

Police negotiated with the man for several hours, and will allege that during the negotiations the man set two fires, both of which were extinguished by ACT Fire & Rescue firefighters.

About 11.20pm AFP Specialist Response Group officers entered the premises and arrested the man. Police were able to contain the incident to the residence and there was no threat to the public.

Police will also allege the man was responsible for a burglary in Franklin earlier yesterday afternoon.

He will face the ACT Magistrates Court today charged with burglary and two counts of arson.

Media enquiries

Police Media — (02) 5126 9070, act-police-media@afp.gov.au