ACT Policing was called to a unit at Guthridge Street in Wanniassa at 12.00pm today following reports of a man creating a disturbance and spreading accelerant outside the unit.

As police attended the man retreated into the unit threatening self-harm and property damage.

Station Sergeant Harry Hains said an all agency response, including police negotiators was established.

“Unfortunately negotiations were unsuccessful and at approximately 3.00pm police initiated emergency action as the man had set fire to the inside of the unit.

“The swift actions of police and emergency services ensured the man was taken into custody unharmed and the fire did not spread to the rest of the building.

“The man has been taken into custody and is being assessed.

“As a safety precaution the occupants of the units in the immediate vicinity were evacuated. Police and emergency services will continue to evaluate the scene to ensure there is no further danger,’ Sergeant Hains said.