Sydney’s biggest court complex has resumed operations after hundreds of people were evacuated following reports of a suspicious package.
Sydney Downing Centre Court was evacuated on Friday morning after reports of a concerning parcel in the complex.
Staff, lawyers and the public were asked to leave about 10am.
Just over half an hour later they were allowed back in as police pulled down the tape.
NSW Police said in a statement that the suspicious package located in the building had been rendered safe.
Officers and sheriffs crowded around the X-ray machine inside the building foyer after people were ushered out of the six-storey complex.
Hundreds of people spilt onto Liverpool St, Castlereagh St, and Elizabeth St in Sydney’s CBD as police stormed the historic courthouse.
Officers wearing helmets and reinforced vests entered the historic building as dozens of police outside the courthouse ensured courtgoers were escorted safely away from the building.
Most of the crowd have now re-entered after waiting an hour to receive the all clear from the authorities.
The exclusion zone set up on Elizabeth, Goulburn, and Liverpool streets has lifted and the roads have reopened.
NSW Police said in a statement that there was no risk to the public.
Officers will continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.