Several schools in Sydney were placed into lockdown on Wednesday as part of a police operation, authorities confirmed. The lockdowns occurred in the city's south-west and western suburbs, areas currently under strict stay-at-home orders due to a COVID-19 outbreak.
Police did not immediately provide details on the nature of the operation but assured the public there was no ongoing threat. Students and staff were instructed to remain inside school buildings while officers conducted their activities.
The lockdowns come as New South Wales reported 177 new COVID-19 cases, with 46 infectious in the community. Premier Gladys Berejiklian extended Sydney's lockdown for an additional four weeks until August 28, citing persistent transmission of the Delta variant.
Residents in eight local government areas, including Canterbury-Bankstown and Fairfield, face tightened restrictions. Essential workers leaving these areas must undergo testing every three days. Construction sites are set to reopen on July 31 under enhanced protocols.
Year 12 students will return to face-to-face learning from August 16, with rapid antigen testing in place. A singles bubble has also been introduced, allowing couples to visit each other's homes.
