A tense police operation unfolded at Builders Express at Southcoast Mall in Shelly Beach earlier today (Thursday), after a man allegedly barricaded himself inside an office following a confrontation with management.

The Herald was at the scene as police, private security and paramedics responded to the incident.

At the time of publication, police had not yet confirmed the circumstances surrounding the incident, and much of what occurred inside the building is based on accounts from eyewitnesses.

According to several witnesses, the man, believed to be an employee, became involved in an argument with management before allegedly damaging office furniture and equipment.

Witnesses said he then locked himself inside an office and allegedly duct-taped a knife to his hand.

It is further alleged that he threatened to harm people inside the building, prompting an emergency response from police and private security.

Witnesses said negotiators attempted to communicate with the man, but he allegedly refused to cooperate and became increasingly aggressive.

The standoff came to an end when police and private security entered the office. Witnesses reported hearing several loud bangs, believed to have been rubber rounds and a stun grenade, before the man was subdued.

Paramedics from Med-Evac treated the man at the scene before transporting him to hospital.

No other injuries were reported.

A large crowd gathered outside the store as emergency personnel secured the area and investigated the incident.

The Herald has contacted police for comment and will update this story as soon as more information becomes available.

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