A 51-year-old NSW man was arrested by police yesterday afternoon (Tuesday, June 25) after he drove through a police block at the Bega Court fire incident, and over a police officer’s foot.
About 2pm police attended Block 7 of the Bega Court flats after reports of a fire and explosion.
Police implemented a number of road blocks in the immediate area to ensure the safety of the public and to allow for emergency personnel to contain the fire.
About 2.50pm a 51-year-old man drove up to the road block at the intersection of Boolee Street and Currong South Street, wanting to enter Boolee Street.
The man was advised of the road closure and left. A short time later he returned and proceeded through the road block, driving over the police officer’s foot, to a car park down the road.
Police apprehended the man a short distance down Boolee Street. He was taken to the ACT Watch House and charged with failing to stop when requested by police, reckless driving and recklessly inflicting actual bodily harm.
The man will face the ACT Magistrates Court on July 9.
Superintendent of North District, Brett Kidner, said that police blocks are put in place to ensure the safety of emergency personnel dealing with an emergency and for the safety of the public.
“There was a large amount of smoke and Emergency Services were busy doing their jobs, when one person decided to disobey a police direction, which could have ended tragically under different circumstances,” Superintendent Kidner said.
“If you fail to obey a direction by a police officer, you may be charged with a criminal offence.
Depending on the situation, you may also place yourself, police and the general public in a dangerous position. Police have these road blocks and cordons for a reason, not to inconvenience the public.”
[Courtesy ACT Policing]
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