ACT Policing yesterday (Wednesday 2 September) responded to an incident involving a firearm and a stolen BMW in Dickson followed by a police pursuit that was called off due to safety concerns.
About 2.10pm the driver of a stolen blue BMW sedan produced a handgun in the presence of two people.
The matter was reported to ACT Policing, and further reports received from the public shortly afterwards indicated the car was seen being driven erratically in the Dickson area.
The vehicle was sighted in Belconnen about 2.30pm and a police cordon was established in the interests of public safety.
About 4pm the stolen car was pursued by police along Canberra Avenue; however, the pursuit was terminated within seconds due to concerns for public safety in heavy afternoon traffic. The car entered NSW a short time later.
The decision to abandon the pursuit was made in line with the AFP National Guideline on Urgent Duty Driving and Pursuits. The pursuit will be reviewed, as required in the guideline.
Police enquiries into the firearm and driving incidents, and the driver’s whereabouts are continuing with the assistance of NSW Police officers.
Anyone with information that may help police locate a stolen blue BMW sedan last seen bearing NSW registration plates CTP94P is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 quoting reference number 6621942. Information can be given anonymously.
Anyone with recent dash-cam footage that has captured the same vehicle is also urged to contact Crime Stoppers.