Teenager Charged After Fake Gun Incident in Mandurah

A 17-year-old boy allegedly brandished a fake gun at Mandurah Forum shopping center near Perth, causing widespread panic among shoppers on Friday afternoon. Eyewitness accounts describe terrified customers, including a mother hiding in a changing room with her baby, as the teenager chased a group of youths through the mall. Police responded swiftly, resulting in the lockdown of several stores, including Cotton On, Sportsgirl, and Foot Locker, while they searched for the suspect. Although the imitation firearm was recovered, the incident raised concerns about safety protocols in the shopping center, as shoppers reported feeling confused and poorly informed during the crisis. The teenager has been charged and is set to appear in court next month. Authorities are also investigating if a knife was involved in the disturbance.