Updated 11:55pm, Friday: Police say the man being sought earlier today has since been located and is assisting officers with their enquiries.
Police have not disclosed what prompted the search or the circumstances behind the operation.
Earlier: Police are searching for a “person of interest” on Tasmania’s east coast and are urging the public to avoid the man if they see him.
A police helicopter and drones were deployed this afternoon to search the Cherry Tree Hill area near Cranbrook.
The operation is centred on the Tasman Highway south of Apslawn, with officers on the ground and in the air scouring the area.
The helicopter has been circling since 1:30pm on Thursday, tracking Old Coach Road, Youngs Road and sections of the highway.
They say the man sought is about 180cm tall, medium build with fair skin. He is thought to be wearing dark-coloured track pants, a dark-coloured top and a dark-coloured cap.
Motorists are being warned to expect an “increased police presence” across the area and on surrounding local roads while the incident continues.
Police say anyone who sees “a man acting suspiciously in the area” or who matches the description should contact them on 131 444.
“At this stage, police do not believe there is a risk to the wider public, however community members are advised not to approach the man and to instead contact police,” a spokesperson said.
