A 33-year-old man from Victoria is set to appear before a Sydney court today, Monday 12 January 2026, following a bizarre and alarming incident in the iconic eastern suburb of Bondi.
Late-Night Suspicion on Oxford Street
Police were summoned to Oxford Street in Bondi at approximately 10:10pm on Sunday night after members of the public reported a person acting suspiciously. Upon arrival, officers encountered the man, who was allegedly wearing a vest with multiple objects attached to it using duct tape.
Arrest and Discovery of Second Vest
The man was arrested at the scene and taken to Surry Hills Police Station for questioning. A subsequent search of his vehicle allegedly uncovered further concerning items. Police state they found a second vest also covered in tape, a face mask, and a tin container believed to hold prohibited drugs.
As a precaution, both vests were examined by specialists from the Rescue and Bomb Disposal Unit. After thorough assessment, the units were declared safe, averting any potential threat to the public.
Charges and Bail Refusal
The man now faces multiple charges. He has been formally charged with:
- Giving false information that a person or property was in danger
- Possessing a prohibited drug
- Behaving in an offensive manner in or near a public place or school
Bail was refused, and his first appearance is scheduled for the Bail Division of the Local Court later today. The swift police response and the serious nature of the charge related to fabricating danger highlight the ongoing vigilance required in public spaces, even in typically tranquil coastal locations.
