It has been a dramatic two days for the Ballina community. First, there was the fallen power pole on Ballina Road on Fishery Creek Bridge, and yesterday, an incident on Cherry Street.

About 12.00pm yesterday (Friday, 19 July 2024), officers from Richmond Police District were called to a motel on Cherry Street, Ballina, regarding a concern for welfare call.

Police were told a man, aged in his 30s, was inside one of the units, allegedly holding a 29-year-old woman against her will.

Following a five-hour police operation, the man was arrested at 5pm.

No injuries were reported.

The man has been taken to Ballina Police Station where he is assisting police with inquiries.

Investigations into the incident are continuing.