The man is alleged to have entered Derwent Park Pharmacy, on Main Road, Glenorchy at 1.45pm, and confronted staff while armed with a knife.
It is believed after the chemist, he visited the newsagency diagnolly across the road, has then visited K and D Hardware on Derwent Park Road before moving to McDonald’s.
It was reported he was armed with a hatchet at the fast food restaurant.
Police confronted the man at the intersection of Derwent Park Road and Main Road Glenorchy and took him into custody.
Glenorchy detectives would like to speak to any person who may have seen a man dressed in a brown top and blue jeans in the vicinity of Main Road Glenorchy between Amiens Avenue and Derwent Park between 1.45pm and 2pm today.
This person is approximately 6 foot tall and at one stage may have been carrying a small axe, similar to a hatchet.
He could also have had a fluorescent jacket on, at a time closer to 2pm, which he did not have earlier.
Anyone who may be able to assist are asked to contact Glenorchy CIB or Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000
The man will appear in court either late this evening or tomorrow morning.