Authorities in Australia reported that a man was taken into custody on Monday after driving his vehicle into the gates of the Russian consulate located in Sydney.
The diplomatic protection unit of the police was alerted for assistance after an unauthorized car was found parked on the consulate’s driveway, according to a spokesperson from the Australian federal police.
Police from New South Wales responded promptly just after 8 a.m., attempting to engage the driver before he accelerated toward the gates at the consulate in the Urrara suburb.
A neighboring resident, who observed the situation unfold, mentioned that the car sped through the gate after officers ordered the driver to exit.
“They kept telling him to get out. He just didn’t comply. At that point, they drew their weapons,” the neighbor recalled.
“It was a pretty intense scene on Monday morning.”
Broadcasts from Australia’s Sky News and Nine depicted a white SUV with smashed windows next to a flagpole at the consulate grounds.
Witness videos shared with Reuters showed police shouting at the driver inside the vehicle, urging, “Get out of the car now.”
A flatbed tow truck later removed the vehicle from the consulate, as per observations made by a Reuters witness.
Police confirmed that a 39-year-old man was arrested, while a 24-year-old police officer suffered hand injuries during the incident.
Those at the consulate declined to provide any comments regarding the matter.
Tim Enlight, a construction worker on a nearby roof, stated that he noticed an officer taking pictures of the car parked close to the consulate around 8 a.m.
He recounted hearing sirens and the sound of helicopters approaching the area.
After the incident, the consulate was temporarily shut down but later reopened, according to individuals who were present at the site for visa appointments.
The Australian Federal Police assured that there is no ongoing or imminent threat to either the consulate or the surrounding community.
