A high-stakes police operation targeting stolen cars in Brisbane's inner south has finished with a dramatic rooftop arrest, following a tense standoff that captivated a Woolloongabba street.
Pursuit Leads to Rooftop Drama
The incident unfolded on the afternoon of December 30, after police patrols, assisted by the PolAir helicopter and the Dog Squad, began tracking multiple vehicles reported stolen from the Annerley and Woolloongabba areas. The pursuit reached a climax around 4.20pm on Redfern Street, near the iconic Norman Hotel, when a suspect scaled the roof of a residential house.
The man was shirtless, barefoot, and had a leg visibly covered in blood, with injuries allegedly sustained during the earlier chase. Emergency services, including ambulance and fire crews, were quickly placed on standby as the street was closed to traffic and pedestrians.
Tense Negotiations and Destructive Behaviour
Police negotiators communicated with the man using a megaphone, urging him to come down peacefully. Residents in neighbouring properties were advised to stay indoors and keep their windows closed for safety.
Throughout the standoff, the suspect was seen moving continuously across the roof, standing and walking at intervals. In a display of defiance, 7NEWS footage captured the man ripping a TV antenna from the roof and throwing it to the ground. He also kicked away a ladder that police had extended in an attempt to reach him.
Second Arrest Made Earlier
Queensland Police confirmed that a second suspect was arrested earlier in the day near the Clem Jones Tunnel at Buranda, before the pursuit moved into the surrounding streets. This arrest was connected to the same investigation into the stolen vehicles.
Standoff Concludes with Arrest
After a period of negotiation, the situation was resolved without further injury. The bloodied man was eventually arrested and escorted from the roof by waiting officers. He was taken into custody for questioning.
A police spokesperson stated that the investigation remains ongoing and no charges have been laid at this stage. Further updates are expected as the inquiry continues.
