At approximately 1:38am, Friday 16 September 2016, Police were called to attend a report of a man armed with knife on Hill Street in West Launceston.

Upon arrival, a 22 year old Newnham man allegedly confronted police with two large hunting knives and engaged in a standoff.

During the incident, the man has made his way along Hill Street to Wellington Street and finally to Punchbowl Road where he was taken into custody by police.  During the standoff, the man allegedly used the knives in his possession to damage vehicles and the windows of buildings along the way.

The man has been charged with numerous offences including Dangerous Article in a Public Place, Aggravated Assault, Resist Police, Damage to Property and Trespass.

The man has been detained to appear in the Launceston Magistrates Court tonight.

Sergeant Greenwood of Launceston Police Headquarters said “Tasmania Police would like to speak with anyone who observed the man during the incident and with anyone who locates damage to their property that has occurred in the area of Hill Street, Wellington Street and Hobart Road.”

Witnesses or property owners who discover damage to their property in the affected area are encouraged to contact Launceston Police on 6777 3945 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.