The three-hour long operation was sparked at about 9.21am when police responded to the report of a disturbance at units in Discovery Street.

The initial report alleged a man involved in the disturbance was armed with a knife and possibly a firearm.

Specialist responses teams attended the area and all streets providing access to Discovery Street were closed as well as Monaro Crescent, La Perouse Street and Cygnet Crescent.

Officers wearing bulletproof vests maintained a cordon during the standoff, escorting one Red Hill resident to her home to retrieve her children.

The cordon was lifted about 12.30pm and the majority of officers left the scene.

On Monday, Woden Station Sergeant Steven Hogarth defended the police response and said was appropriate given the initial complaint made to police.

“After interviewing several people in relation to the incident police ascertained that a firearm had not been sighted,” Sergeant Hogarth said.

“Around an hour into the police response the complainant recanted the information initially provided to police.”

An ACT Policing spokesman said no charges had been laid and investigations were continuing.

Anyone who may be able to assist police with the investigation is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via www.act.crimestoppers.com.au