A major police incident has unfolded on a street in Melbourne’s CBD, with people told to stay inside their office buildings, and a man has been arrested.
Police, including the bomb squad, were called to Collins St around midday on Wednesday and focused their attention on a white car parked on the street.
Just before 1pm they found a firearm at the scene, but have not yet confirmed if it is a real one or an imitation.
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A 33-year-old man was arrested and is now being interviewed in relation to an ongoing arson and explosives squad investigation.
“The matter is not terror related and there is no immediate threat to community safety,” police said in a statement.
“The Bomb Response Unit has deployed to conduct a safety check on a vehicle in Collins Street.
“Further information will be provided once operationally appropriate to do so.”
A heavy police presence remains, including members of the critical incident response team.
There were initial reports of a possible bank robbery, but police at the scene ruled that out to 7NEWS.
The area was cleared and declared safe at 1pm.
Trams were diverted from the scene, but are resuming normal services now, with delays expected.