Armoured vehicles, riot police surround Sydney CBD courthouse amid fears of ‘disruption’

Riot police have been deployed to Sydney's Downing Centre Local Court amid fears a number of court appearances today could be "disrupted".

Heavily armed officers are circling the building in cars, while an armoured Bearcat vehicle and a police helicopter have also been deployed to the area.

Five riot squad trucks are on the scene in Liverpool Street along with the tactical response group and the public order riot squad.

The courtrooms are still in operation, with 273 separate appearances scheduled today.

Police said the operation was not terrorism-related.

"As a result of information received about the possible disruption to a number of court appearances today, NSW Police in conjunction with NSW Corrective Services have implemented an operation," a NSW Police spokeswoman said.

It is understood the operation related to an armed robbery trial.

The matter was briefly mentioned before being adjourned until tomorrow.