Australian Police Photo: SHUTTERSTOCK Violent incident at Brisbane Airport in Australia: A 51-year-old man from New South Wales was arrested on Monday, October 26, after allegedly causing a disturbance in the terminal, assaulting an airline staff member and damaging equipment. He then continued his violent behavior in the baggage claim area, according to a police statement.
The incident allegedly began at the boarding gate, where the man became aggressive towards airline employees. During the confrontation, he punched a crew member in the chest and damaged equipment placed on the service counter.
The suspect then moved to the baggage claim hall, where he threw other passengers' luggage from the baggage conveyor to the floor and behaved aggressively towards other people present.
Witnesses to the incident intervened and restrained the suspect until Australian Federal Police (AFP) officers arrived, who arrested him and took him into custody.
Following the incident, the 51-year-old was charged with malicious damage, assault, and disturbing public order. According to the information published, the maximum penalty for malicious damage is up to five years in prison, for assault up to three years in prison, and for disturbing public order up to six months in prison.
The suspect is expected to appear before the Australian Magistrates' Court on Tuesday, October 27.
The Australian Federal Police emphasize that they will act against manifestations of violence, bullying, and anti-social behavior at the country's airports.
Police Officer Kurt Wesha said that air crews, ground staff and the traveling public have the right to feel safe throughout all phases of the flight and their stay in the terminal.
The police called on the public to report unusual or suspicious behavior through the Airport Watch hotline, at 131 237.