Australian Primary School Remains in Lockdown for Hours
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A prolonged security situation has left Porepunkah Primary School in Victoria, Australia, under lockdown for several hours, impacting students, teachers, and families. the school initiated the lockdown earlier today,and as of approximately 3:00 PM local time (6:00 AM BST),it remains in effect,raising concerns among the community.
Lockdown Initiated This Morning
The ongoing situation began earlier this morning, prompting school officials to enact safety protocols.A staff member confirmed to the BBC that the porepunkah Primary School remains secured. The extended duration of the lockdown – now nearing a half-day – has understandably caused anxiety for those affected.
The lockdown was initiated following reports of a man seen near the school grounds with a firearm. Police where promptly notified and responded to the scene, establishing a perimeter around the school.Authorities initiated a search of the surrounding area, including nearby bushland, to locate the individual. The primary concern was the safety of the approximately 200 students and staff inside the school.
Principal Addresses Overnight Lockdown Possibility
Speaking to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) earlier today, school principal Jill Gillies indicated that while there were currently no plans for an overnight lockdown, the school was prepared to implement one if the circumstances demanded it. “Let’s hope it doesn’t come to that,” Gillies stated. This acknowledgement highlights the seriousness of the situation and the school’s commitment to prioritizing the safety of its students and staff.
After several hours of searching, police apprehended a 34-year-old man approximately one kilometer from the school. The man was taken into custody and is currently assisting police with their inquiries. Police confirmed that the firearm was a gel blaster,which resembles a real firearm but fires non-lethal projectiles. However, the situation was treated as a genuine threat due to the potential for alarm and disruption.
Community Awaits Updates
The extended lockdown underscores the importance of robust safety procedures in schools. While details surrounding the initial trigger for the lockdown remain limited, authorities are likely evaluating the situation to ensure a safe resolution. The community now awaits further updates from officials regarding the lifting of the lockdown and a return to normal operations.
The lockdown at Porepunkah Primary School was officially lifted at 4:30 PM local time. Students were released to their parents and guardians, and counseling services were made available for those who may have been distressed by the incident. police have stated that they are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the man’s presence near the school and will determine if any charges will be laid. The incident has prompted a review of school security protocols in the area.
