The Northern Territory Police congratulate Senior Constable Luke Bevan and Senior Sergeant Michael Milde, who have been awarded the Commendation for Brave Conduct as part of the Australian Bravery Decorations August 2024 Honours List announced by the Australian Governor-General late last night.
On the morning of 17 July 2022, both officers were off duty and attending the Todd Street Markets with their families when they demonstrated extraordinary courage and bravery in the face of danger.
At approximately 10:45 am, Senior Constable Luke Bevan witnessed a man brandishing a knife and chasing another male. Without hesitation, Senior Constable Bevan stepped away from his family to confront the armed offender and repeatedly ordered him to drop the weapon. As the situation escalated, Senior Constable Bevan was joined by Senior Sergeant Michael Milde, who had also observed the commotion and intervened by tackling the offender to the ground.
During the struggle, the offender attempted to strike the officers with the knife, grazing Senior Sergeant Milde’s arm. Despite the danger, both officers managed to subdue the offender and hold him on the ground until on duty officers arrived and took him into custody.
Deputy Commissioner Martin Dole APM said “It is a massive credit to both officers for receiving this recognition, I commend both Senior Constable Bevan and Senior Sergeant Milde for their quick thinking, decisive actions, and commitment to public safety, even while off duty.
“Their bravery exemplifies the highest standards of the police service and underscores the dedication of our officers to protecting the Northern Territory community.”