Man charged after bomb squad called to Bondi following Shloshim service
A man has been charged after bomb disposal police were called to Bondi Road, Bondi on Sunday night over concerns he was wearing a vest covered in duct-taped items, just hours after a Shloshim service marking one month since the Bondi Beach terror attack.
NSW Police including members of the bomb squad were called to Bondi Road shortly after 10.10 pm following reports of suspicious behaviour in the area. Officers located a 33-year-old man, believed to be from Victoria, who was wearing the vest at the time.
The suspicious-looking vest (AJA Facebook)
Given the heightened security environment in Sydney’s eastern suburbs since the December attack, police requested assistance from the Rescue and Bomb Disposal Unit. The vest was examined and later declared safe.
Police allege a search of the man’s vehicle uncovered a second duct-taped vest, a face mask and a tin containing what is believed to be a prohibited drug. No explosives or hazardous materials were found.
The man was arrested and taken to Surry Hills Police Station. He was charged with giving false information about a person or property being in danger, possessing a prohibited drug, and offensive behaviour in or near a public place. He was refused bail and appeared before the Bail Division of the Local Court on Monday.
Police confirmed the incident was handled by officers attached to Operation Shelter, which was established after the Bondi Beach attack to strengthen policing responses to security threats, hate incidents and community safety concerns.
The incident occurred after a Shloshim service held earlier in the evening to commemorate those killed in the Bondi attack, an event that drew large crowds and prompted an increased police presence across the area.
NSW Police said there was no ongoing threat to the public and urged anyone with concerns to report suspicious behaviour.
