A major police operation unfolded in Melbourne's CBD on Wednesday after a reported bomb scare, leading to the lockdown of Collins Street. A 33-year-old man was arrested near Bendigo Bank just after midday.
Police confirmed the matter is not terror-related and there is no immediate threat to community safety. The Bomb Response Unit conducted a safety check on a white Volkswagen hatchback, from which items including a handgun, drug paraphernalia, paper towels, a chain, and Valvoline motor oil were seized.
The man is being interviewed in connection with an ongoing arson and explosives squad investigation. Collins Street was closed between Elizabeth and Queen Streets, causing traffic and tram disruptions, though public transport has since resumed with expected delays.
