A Malaysian national was arrested at Melbourne’s Crown Casino last week after he allegedly made threats to kill, filed false reports with police and made other false statements, local media report.
Victoria Police “were called there in relation to a male with a backpack acting erratically,” Commander David Clayton said. “Police responded, the area was evacuated and a short time later a 55-year-old male was taken into custody.”
Although nothing was found in the backpack and no injuries were reported, the incident sparked a panic in the city. Special officers and members of the bomb squad were called to the casino as staff and patrons evacuated.
“It was the way he was acting and behaving. He complied with the police request when we arrested him,” Clayton told reporters.
The casino was declared safe and reopened hours after the incident.
“The issue was resolved peacefully with the assistance of Victorian Police,” Crown Casino said in a statement.
