Ballina Byron Gateway Airport arrest involves knife and officer assault

A 38-year-old man has been charged with multiple offences following a dramatic incident at Ballina Byron Gateway Airport. The incident began when the man allegedly forced his way into a restricted area during a busy period on Monday morning.

Police reported that after being searched, a knife and a saw were discovered among the man's belongings. Although he was initially issued a move-on direction and left the premises, authorities allege he returned to the airport shortly after in breach of that direction.

During the subsequent arrest, a male senior constable was allegedly assaulted, sustaining minor injuries that required treatment by NSW Ambulance paramedics at the scene. Video footage of the struggle shows several officers working to restrain the man and place him into a police vehicle.

The individual was taken to Lismore Base Hospital for assessment under police guard before being transferred to Lismore Police Station. He faces several charges, including possessing a knife in a public place, assaulting a police officer causing actual bodily harm, resisting police, and using an offensive weapon to prevent lawful detention. He was refused bail.