Bomb squad called in to major CBD incident
A major arson and explosive investigation is unfolding in central Melbourne.
The incident began at midday on Wednesday on Collins St, with multiple police cars and the bomb squad in attendance.
Video on social media shows a number of police vehicles blocking off the major thoroughfare.
The street was blocked off in both directions between Queen and Elizabeth St but it has since reopened.
Multiple businesses and buildings were also forced to shut, with trams also stopped from going through the street.
In a statement, the police said the incident was not terror related.
“Police arrested a 33-year-old man on Collins Street in Melbourne’s CBD shortly after midday today,” police said in a statement.
“He will now be interviewed in relation to an ongoing Arson and Explosives Squad investigation.
“The matter is not terror related and there is no immediate threat to community safety.
“The Bomb Response Unit has deployed to conduct a safety check on a vehicle in Collins Street.
Further information will be provided once operationally appropriate to do so.”
A large part of Collins Street has been blocked off for a major police operation.
The Bomb Squad has been called in and focussing on a white vehicle.
Initial reports of a possible bank robbery, but police at the scene have ruled that out.@7NewsMelbourne pic.twitter.com/jDl3x55YYc— Cassie Zervos (@cassiezervos) June 19, 2024
A white Volkswagen hatchback was seen being searched by police outside panerai, a “suspicious item” was reportedly found inside.
Detectives were seen pulling a can of petrol out of the car, and bagging up black knuckle dusters in an evidence bag.
A police spokesman said they would provide information shortly.
The area was cleared about 1pm, with workers allowed out of buildings and onto the street about 1.30pm.
Ambulance Victoria has been contacted for comment.
