Gun-wielding driver charged over robberies

A man has been charged after allegedly ordering a child out of a car before stealing it, robbing taxi drivers and driving around Perth pointing a gun at people.

Police say the 29-year-old forced an eight-year-old boy out of a car in Cockburn so he could steal it on Sunday afternoon.

He then allegedly threatened a man with a gun at a Como petrol station and waved the firearm while driving.

Later, he pointed the weapon at two taxi drivers, and stole a wallet and cash.

A third taxi driver drove away before he was robbed, police said.

The alleged offender was later seen driving in Nedlands, pointing the gun at passers-by.

He was caught after a pursuit on Sunday night when he reversed into a police car.

The man was charged with stealing a motor vehicle, two counts of aggravated armed robbery, two counts of assault with intent to rob, and going armed to cause fear.

He was to appear before the Perth Magistrates Court on Monday.