A man has been charged after an alleged explosive was thrown at police, setting them alight, during an operation in the state’s north last week.
About 2pm on Thursday 25 June 2026, officers from Hunter Valley Police District attended a house on Parkinson Avenue, Muswellbrook, to execute an arrest warrant.
Officers attempted to arrest a 58-year-old man; however, he allegedly resisted and threatened police with a compound bow.
A perimeter was established and an operation commenced with the assistance of the Tactical Operations Unit.
Whilst attempting to speak with the man, he allegedly poured fuel throughout the house and threw gas bottles at officers.
About 6am on Friday 26 June 2026, tactical officers forced entry into the house where the man allegedly threw an improvised explosive device at the officers setting them alight.
The officers were able to extinguish themselves, before using beanbag rounds to arrest the man.
He was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics at the scene before being taken to John Hunter Hospital for further assessment.
Several officers were treated on scene by NSW Ambulance paramedics for minor burns to the face, arms, and neck. They did not require further treatment.
About 12pm the same day, investigators executed a search warrant at the premises and allegedly located and seized offensive weapons including a mace, crossbow and cannabis.
The man was subsequently charged with 19 offences including throw/lay down etc explosive etc with intent to maim/do grievous bodily harm, use offensive weapon to prevent lawful detention and assault police.
The man was refused bail to appear at Bail Division Court 2 yesterday (Tuesday 30 June 2026) where he was formally refused bail to appear at a later date.
