Parliament went into lockdown last night after a man produced a gun inside the grounds.
It followed a call from Parliament security at about 9.20pm after one of their officers had approached a man, aged in his 30s, who produced the imitation air gun and made comments that caused concern for his wellbeing.
No comments or threats were made to the security officer or Parliament.
Armed police quickly responded and the man was arrested without issue as he approached his car on Molesworth Street. The firearm was located on him.
Although there was no apparent threat to any other person, Parliament was temporarily locked down by security staff as a precaution and officers monitored the male via CCTV.
Police said this proved valuable in monitoring his movements for attending police staff.
The man is due to be medically assessed before a decision is made on what, if any charges will be laid.
