Bomb scare sparks chaos in Bondi as man in duct‑taped vest arrested
A man has been arrested and charged after a bomb scare sparked chaos.
Police say the 34‑year‑old was spotted in Bondi Junction wearing a camo vest covered in duct‑taped objects, prompting fears of an explosive device on Sunday.
WATCH ABOVE: Victorian man charged over bomb scare
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.He later insisted the vest was simply for exercise.
The scare unfolded just days out from the one‑month anniversary of the Bondi attacks, with officers taking no chances.
Cleophias Machaya was stopped on Oxford St just after 10pm, allegedly asking where Bondi Beach was.
Witnesses told 7NEWS the sight was alarming.
“It was concerning, especially given the events over the last couple of weeks,” one Sydney man said.
“It’s very childish and attention‑seeking… we don’t have any time for that,” a Bondi woman added.
Machaya was taken to Surry Hills Police Station, where the bomb squad examined the vest — along with a second vest found in his van. Both were deemed safe. Officers also allegedly located a face mask and a tin believed to contain drugs.
He was charged with give false information person/property in danger, possess prohibited drug and behave in offensive manner in/near public place/school.
In court on Monday, his defence argued the vest was a resistance‑training device he was using to prepare for a potential attempt to qualify for the UFC.
Machaya was granted strict bail conditions and is due back in court next month.
Originally published on 7NEWS
