New South Wales Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon has defended the police response to an incident at Sydney’s Entertainment Quarter, where a man was arrested at gunpoint after being reported for carrying a replica firearm as part of a costume. The arrest occurred on Monday following multiple calls from members of the public who reported seeing a man wearing body armour and carrying what appeared to be a handgun.

The 35-year-old hospitality worker, identified as Jacopo Mastrocinquel, was detained by officers who later charged him with possession of an unregistered and unauthorised pistol in a public place, as well as offensive behaviour. Along with the imitation pistol, police discovered an imitation police vest and badge, and plastic handcuffs on him.

Mastrocinquel, a restaurant manager and owner of a pizza catering business called The Italian Fellas, appeared in Sydney bail court on Tuesday. His legal counsel, barrister Wali Shukoor, explained that Mastrocinquel had been attending a "heroes and villains" themed costume party with colleagues at a nearby bowling alley. Shukoor stated that his client had stepped outside for a cigarette when witnesses became alarmed, leading to the police response. The barrister described the decision to carry the false firearm as "foolish."

Commissioner Lanyon emphasized the appropriateness of the police reaction, highlighting community concerns following the recent terrorist attack at Bondi. “Seeing a man armed with a handgun with what looks like a ballistic vest sitting in public in this environment is always going to cause fear,” he said. Lanyon praised the swift actions of officers, noting that the prompt response reassured the public and was handled correctly given the circumstances.

The incident underscores heightened vigilance in Sydney amidst ongoing security concerns, with law enforcement prioritising rapid intervention to maintain public safety.