A man staged a two-hour stand-off with police after scaling a job centre roof.
Residents said the man, reportedly protesting about a benefits grievance, could be heard shouting "You're not f****** getting me" at police and negotiators who were sent to the scene.
The protester, sometimes concealing his face with his hooded jacket, was also heard saying: "I'm starving" as the dramatic scenes played out at Upton Job Centre Plus in Arrowe Park Road in Upton.
Witnesses said at one point the man allegedly smashed tiles after getting on the roof around 10am on Tuesday.
Neighbouring roads were sealed off while negotiators spoke with him.
An ambulance was sent as a precaution.
And a Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service spokeswoman said they were called at 10.29am and sent two fire engines and a search and rescue team but were only “on standby” and left the scene at 12.11pm.
ECHO reporter Lee Grimsditch who provided updates for our rolling coverage said: "Witnesses say the man has been smashing tiles and calling down to police saying: 'You're not f****ng getting me.'"
Merseyside Police said specially trained negotiators were amongst its response and road closures were in place in Arrowe Park Road and Arrowe Brook Road and traffic was being diverted away "for public safety".
Police later confirmed the man had come safely down at 12.05pm with all road closures lifted.
They said an investigation was underway into the circumstances behind today's call-out.
A Merseyside Police spokeswoman said: "Merseyside Police can confirm the man is now safely down from the roof and is currently being assessed.
"All roads in the area have been reopened. We would like to thank everyone for their patience."
A DWP spokesperson said: “The welfare of customers and staff is paramount, and we are grateful that the police have resolved this incident.”
Were you the man or know his situation? Contact Political Editor Liam Thorp on 0151 330 5042.
