A man was pepper sprayed in the face twice during a confrontation with police outside the Metro Theatre on George Street, Sydney, on Friday night, 2 January 2026. Videos of the incident were watched almost two million times.
Key Facts
- Where: Outside the Metro Theatre, George Street, Sydney CBD.
- When: About 9:45pm, Friday 2 January 2026.
- Why police came: Reports that an intoxicated man was refusing to leave a venue.
- Arrest: An 18-year-old man was arrested and charged.
- Pepper spray: Used on a different man who kept approaching an officer.
What the Video Shows
A man in a brown jumper kept walking back to an officer, who told him: “Get back, get back!” He was pushed to the ground, got up, and was pepper sprayed twice.
The Charges
Police said the 18-year-old was charged with offences including remaining near licensed premises after being excluded, hindering police, possessing a prohibited drug and breaching bail. He was due at Newtown Local Court on 27 January.
When Can Police Use Pepper Spray?
news.com.au reported that NSW Police rules allow capsicum spray for defence, including to protect life or control violent resistance.
Correction
An earlier version said the incident happened in broad daylight. It happened at night.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where did the Sydney pepper spray incident happen?
Outside the Metro Theatre on George Street.
Who was charged?
An 18-year-old man.
When can NSW Police use pepper spray?
For defence, such as to protect life or control violent resistance.
Conclusion
Many online commenters backed the young officers, who faced a hostile crowd.
Related reads: Two Injured After Partial Building and Wall Collapse in Ultimo, Sydney: Dramatic Cave-In Sparks Massive Emergency Response; Chaos in Brisbane! Police Move In on Olympic Stadium Protest Camp—Arrests Made; Coconut Cartel Kingpin Gunned Down In Cold Blood at Vietnam Restaurant—And Why Aussie Police Are Terrified of What Happens Next.
Leave a Reply