Queensland Premier, Peter Beattie, today said he was having “one of those days” following the inadvertent release of a press statement congratulating police for the arrest of a shooting suspect.
The press statement was removed within hours after it became clear that the police had made no such arrest.
This is the release that was posted on the Premier’s web site and emailed to subscribers:
BEATTIE APPLAUDS POLICE FOR ARREST OF SHOOTING SUSPECT
Premier Peter Beattie today praised police officers who were involved in the arrest of a man alleged to have shot three officers on Monday morning in a suburban Brisbane street.
“The successful arrest of this man is yet another example of the world-class professionalism and dedication of the Queensland Police Service,” Mr Beattie said.
“This operation has been a testing time professionally and emotionally for all officers involved in the investigation and hunt.
“On behalf of all Queenslanders, I thank and applaud each and every one of those officers.
“Our thoughts and best wishes also remain with the three officers who were shot, and their families and friends. I wish the officers a speedy recovery.
“I would also like to thank the members of the public who have assisted police during this investigation.”
Further information: Ron Watson 0408 779 311
Later, this retraction was posted:
Important message to subscribers of Premier’s Internet media release site:
You may have received in error today an e-mail media release in the name of the Premier referring to the arrest of a man for the shooting of three police officers last week.
This release was prepared by staff in preparation for such an arrest and was posted on the Internet in error – resulting in subscribers to the media site receiving an e-mail copy of the release.
The release has now been withdrawn from the Internet.
The Premier regrets the fact that this mistake occurred and any inconvenience it may have caused.
Further information: Steve Bishop 07 3224 4500
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