whitlam police

Police Operation in Whitlam Ends in Arrest After Christmas Eve Lockdown

Residents of Whitlam, a quiet suburb in Canberra’s growing Molonglo Valley, breathed a collective sigh of relief late on Christmas Eve after a tense police operation concluded with the arrest of a man reportedly armed with a firearm. The incident, which unfolded around 8:30 pm on Wednesday, 24 December 2025, prompted a large-scale response from ACT Policing, including heavily armed officers, roadblocks, and a directive for locals to stay indoors.

While the situation caused significant disruption during what is traditionally a time of celebration, authorities acted swiftly to ensure public safety. The operation, which lasted several hours, ended without injury and resulted in one individual being taken into custody.

This article provides a detailed, verified account of the Whitlam police operation, its immediate aftermath, and what it means for the community moving forward—based solely on official statements and reputable news sources.

Main Narrative: What Happened in Whitlam on Christmas Eve?

On the evening of 24 December 2025, reports emerged of a man allegedly seen with a firearm in the suburb of Whitlam, located approximately 12 kilometres west of Canberra’s city centre. Within minutes, ACT Policing launched a major operation, deploying tactical response units and establishing roadblocks around key access points.

Residents were urgently advised via social media and local alerts to remain indoors, avoid windows, and follow police instructions. The lockdown affected hundreds of households in the newly developed residential area, known for its family-friendly streets and proximity to parks and schools.

According to verified reports from ACT Policing, the operation began after credible information was received about an armed individual in the vicinity. Officers responded with caution, given the potential risk to public safety.

“An ACT Policing operation is currently underway in Whitlam following an incident earlier this afternoon. Residents of Whitlam are advised to remain indoors and to please follow police direction as roadblocks are in place.”
— ACT Policing Media Release, 24 December 2025

The operation intensified as night fell, with police vehicles lining the streets and helicopters reportedly circling overhead. Witnesses described a heavy police presence, including officers in tactical gear carrying rifles.

At approximately 10:30 pm, the situation was brought under control. ACT Policing confirmed that a man had been arrested and that no injuries had been reported.

“Police operation in Whitlam ends in arrest,” stated Region Canberra, citing official sources. “ACT Policing officers were called to Whitlam on Wednesday evening (24 December) for an operation. Region understands the man may have been in possession of a firearm.”
— Region Canberra, 24 December 2025

The Canberra Times provided further detail, quoting a police officer at the scene who was heard shouting, “Put it down now,” during the confrontation. The publication confirmed that the suspect complied and was taken into custody without further incident.

“Whitlam residents were told to stay indoors for their own safety amid a police operation responding to a person reportedly armed with a gun.”
— The Canberra Times, 24 December 2025

While the exact nature of the firearm and the suspect’s intentions remain under investigation, the swift and coordinated response by ACT Policing prevented what could have been a far more serious situation—especially on a night when families were gathered at home.

Recent Updates: Timeline of the Whitlam Police Operation

Here’s a chronological breakdown of verified events based on official statements and trusted media reports:

• ~8:30 pm, 24 December 2025: Reports surface of a man seen with a firearm in Whitlam. ACT Policing receives the alert and initiates a response.
• 8:45 pm: Police arrive on scene and establish a perimeter. Roadblocks are set up on key access roads, including Coppins Way and Tuggeranong Parkway exits.
• 9:00 pm: ACT Policing issues a public advisory via social media and emergency alert systems, urging residents to stay indoors and avoid the area.
• 9:30 pm – 10:15 pm: Tactical units, including the Specialist Response Group (SRG), conduct a methodical search of the area. Helicopter support is deployed for aerial surveillance.
• 10:20 pm: Police confront the suspect. Audio from body-worn cameras captures an officer shouting, “Put it down now,” before the man surrenders.
• 10:30 pm: ACT Policing confirms the arrest of one male individual. No injuries reported among officers or civilians.
• 11:00 pm: Roadblocks begin to be lifted. Residents are advised that the immediate threat has passed but to remain cautious.
• 25 December 2025 (Christmas Day): ACT Policing releases a follow-up statement confirming the suspect is in custody and that investigations are ongoing. No charges have yet been formally announced.

The operation drew widespread attention due to its timing—Christmas Eve—and the rarity of such high-alert police activity in the typically peaceful suburb of Whitlam. Social media lit up with concerned posts from residents, many of whom expressed relief once the situation was resolved.

Contextual Background: Whitlam and ACT Policing’s Approach to Armed Incidents

Whitlam is one of Canberra’s newest suburbs, developed as part of the Molonglo Valley expansion. With a population of just over 2,000 residents, it’s known for its modern housing, green spaces, and family-oriented community. Incidents involving firearms are exceptionally rare in the ACT, making the Christmas Eve event all the more shocking.

The Australian Capital Territory has some of the strictest gun laws in Australia, with stringent licensing requirements and a strong emphasis on public safety. According to the Australian Institute of Criminology, the ACT reports one of the lowest rates of firearm-related incidents nationally—fewer than 0.5 per 100,000 people annually.

This context makes the Whitlam incident particularly notable. While isolated, it underscores the importance of rapid response protocols and community awareness, even in low-crime areas.

ACT Policing has a well-established framework for responding to armed incidents, including:

• Immediate threat assessment using intelligence and witness reports.
• Deployment of the Specialist Response Group (SRG), trained in high-risk operations.
• Public communication protocols, including SMS alerts and social media updates.
• Collaboration with NSW Police if the incident crosses jurisdictional boundaries.

In recent years, ACT Policing has increased its focus on community engagement and proactive policing, particularly in rapidly growing suburbs like Whitlam, Molonglo, and Wright. Regular safety forums, school programs, and neighbourhood patrols aim to build trust and ensure residents feel secure.

However, the Whitlam incident highlights that even in peaceful communities, the potential for sudden crisis exists—and preparedness is key.

Immediate Effects: Community Impact and Public Reaction

The lockdown had a profound, albeit temporary, impact on Whitlam residents. For many, the evening was meant to be spent with family, exchanging gifts, and enjoying festive meals. Instead, they found themselves confined to their homes, watching police vehicles flash by their windows.

Local parent Sarah Thompson, who lives on Coppins Way, described the experience as “terrifying.”

“We were just about to sit down for dinner when we got the alert. My kids were confused, and I was trying to stay calm. We turned off the lights and stayed away from the windows. It’s not something you expect on Christmas Eve.”

Others praised the police response, noting the clarity of instructions and the visible presence of officers.

“I felt safe knowing they were out there,” said James Reed, a Whitlam resident since 2022. “They communicated well and didn’t rush in blindly. It showed professionalism.”

Businesses in the area, including the nearby Cooleman Court shopping centre, were unaffected, but some delivery drivers reported delays due to road closures.

The incident also sparked conversations online about mental health, gun ownership, and community safety. While no motive has been confirmed, unverified social media posts suggested the suspect may have been experiencing personal difficulties. **It is important to note that