The Australian Federal Police Association strongly supports ACT Policing officers who acted quickly and in response to a serious public safety threat in Woden on 12 November 2025.
Officers responded to reports of an armed offender with a knife who had carried out an aggravated robbery and attempted several carjackings. A member of the public was injured during the incident and ACT Policing officers moved fast to protect the community.
AFPA President Alex Caruana said the incident unfolded in a busy shopping centre and nearby streets.
“Independent witnesses gave clear descriptions of a young person who matched the suspect’s build and clothing. Officers used that information to locate and briefly detain an individual on a public bus.
“Their aim was simple, to stop any further harm in a crowded area. The individual was soon confirmed not to be the offender. Rapid checks of this kind are central to effective policing and put community safety first,” Mr Caruana said.
The AFPA praised the officers for their judgment, who were responding to reports of an active armed offender who had already hurt a member of the public and frightened shoppers and motorists. Stopping the bus was a measured step to remove a possible threat to the many people nearby. The officers should be recognised for their courage, not criticised.
Mr Caruana acknowledged the distress felt by the young person, his family and the passengers during the short detention.
“ACT Policing has issued an apology, met with the family and local First Nations representatives and begun an independent review through the AFP Professional Standards with input from the ACT Ombudsman. These actions show a clear commitment to accountability and openness.
“The incident highlights the realities of frontline policing. Officers often face immediate danger while still considering community impacts.
“I urge the community and media to consider the broader context. Without the quick actions of the police, many more people could have been at risk,” Mr Caruana said.
Police later arrested the actual offender in Ainslie that evening and he faced court the next day.
The AFPA remains firm in its support for the well-being of our members who work every day to keep Australians safe.
Media Contact AFPA Media and Government Relations Manager Troy Roberts, (02) 6285 1677, troy.r@afpa.org.au
The Australian Federal Police Association strongly supports ACT Policing officers who acted quickly and in response to a serious public safety threat in Woden on 12 November 2025.
Officers responded to reports of an armed offender with a knife who had carried out an aggravated robbery and attempted several carjackings. A member of the public was injured during the incident and ACT Policing officers moved fast to protect the community.
AFPA President Alex Caruana said the incident unfolded in a busy shopping centre and nearby streets.
“Independent witnesses gave clear descriptions of a young person who matched the suspect’s build and clothing. Officers used that information to locate and briefly detain an individual on a public bus.
“Their aim was simple, to stop any further harm in a crowded area. The individual was soon confirmed not to be the offender. Rapid checks of this kind are central to effective policing and put community safety first,” Mr Caruana said.
The AFPA praised the officers for their judgment, who were responding to reports of an active armed offender who had already hurt a member of the public and frightened shoppers and motorists. Stopping the bus was a measured step to remove a possible threat to the many people nearby. The officers should be recognised for their courage, not criticised.
Mr Caruana acknowledged the distress felt by the young person, his family and the passengers during the short detention.
“ACT Policing has issued an apology, met with the family and local First Nations representatives and begun an independent review through the AFP Professional Standards with input from the ACT Ombudsman. These actions show a clear commitment to accountability and openness.
“The incident highlights the realities of frontline policing. Officers often face immediate danger while still considering community impacts.
“I urge the community and media to consider the broader context. Without the quick actions of the police, many more people could have been at risk,” Mr Caruana said.
Police later arrested the actual offender in Ainslie that evening and he faced court the next day.
The AFPA remains firm in its support for the well-being of our members who work every day to keep Australians safe.
Media Contact AFPA Media and Government Relations Manager Troy Roberts, (02) 6285 1677, troy.r@afpa.org.au
