Men charged after 'violent struggle' with police in Sydney
Two men have been charged after they were allegedly found with loaded firearms outside a home in Sydney's eastern suburbs, then "wrestled" officers following a police pursuit.
Police responded to reports of a man on George Street, Dover Heights, holding a loaded gun at 8.20am yesterday.
Detective Inspector Adam Solah said one man, identified as Sioasi Tupoulahi, was allegedly seen holding a gun and wearing a balaclava, while another man, Yousif Zrayka, was seated in a Cupra SUV, which left the scene.
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Police responded to reports of a man on George Street, Dover Heights, holding a loaded gun at 8.20am today before leaving in a Cupra SUV. Nine
Investigators started a pursuit of the car onto Bondi Road at Bondi, before stopping the car at Old South Head Road, leading to both men being arrested.
Solah alleged both men "violently resisted" arrest, with 24-year-old Tupoulahi, fleeing on foot before two officers caught up to him in the backyard of a nearby home.
Zrayka, aged 20, was arrested at the scene.
"When police arrested one offender it was a violent struggle ... both offenders violently struggled with police, they both violently resisted arrest," he said.
Two loaded firearms were found in the car, including a semi-automatic pistol and a revolver.
Both have been charged with multiple offences, including firearm-related crimes, and stalking.
Tupoulahi was also charged with assaulting police.
They were refused bail and will appear in court today.
9News understands the men were near the home of nightclub kingpin John Ibrahim.
Police spoke to Ibrahim after the incident. He has not been accused of any wrongdoing or involvement whatsoever.
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Detective Inspector Adam Solah said one man was seen holding a gun and wearing a balaclava, while another was seated in a car. Nine
Solah said there was no evidence of a firearm being fired, and investigators are still trying to figure out what the men were doing on George Street.
Police believe the allegedly armed men travelled from outside of the area.
"At this stage, we have not ascertained as to why they were in the street … why they were there will form a key part of our enquiry," he said.
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