Chaos at Invasion Day Rally in Perth’s CBD
Perth — A peaceful protest held in Perth’s city centre on January 26, 2026 was dramatically disrupted when a man allegedly threw a suspected explosive device into a crowd at Forrest Place plaza, prompting authorities to evacuate thousands of people and launch a major police response. The object was hurled into the crowd during an Invasion Day rally, part of events marking Australia Day and drawing both supporters and onlookers to the area.
Police described the incident as a serious public safety threat and treated it as a potential mass‑casualty scenario, although the device fortunately did not detonate. Emergency services quickly established a cordon and moved people to safety to prevent further risk.
The Incident and Immediate Response
According to Western Australia Police, the rally was underway at around 12:15 p.m. when the suspect allegedly removed an item from his bag and threw it from a first‑floor walkway into the crowd near the main stage. Nearly 2,500 people were attending the event at the time.
Officers immediately responded, ordering the crowd to evacuate Forrest Place and nearby Forrest Chase shopping centre as a safety precaution while specialists secured the area. Forensic teams from the WA Police Bomb Response Unit examined the object, which was found to contain ball bearings, screws and volatile liquid compounds in a glass container — components consistent with a homemade explosive device.
WA Police Commissioner Col Blanch stressed that the device had the potential to injure or kill if it had functioned as designed, but that it failed to detonate, averting a potentially catastrophic outcome. Premier Roger Cook joined law enforcement in condemning the alleged act, highlighting the importance of maintaining peace and safety on a significant public holiday.
Arrest and Charges
Police swiftly identified and detained the suspect — a 31‑year‑old man from the northern Perth suburb of Warwick — at the scene. He was later charged with an unlawful act or omission with intent to do harm (endangering life, health or safety) and making or possessing explosives under suspicious circumstances. The man was denied bail and was scheduled to appear in court later in January.
As part of the investigation, officers executed a search of the man’s residence, where they reportedly discovered additional chemicals and materials consistent with bomb‑making. Police are continuing forensic analysis and interviews, and authorities have not yet publicly confirmed the suspect’s motive.
Eyewitness Accounts and Public Reaction
Witnesses at the rally described a sudden shift from a peaceful event to confusion and alarm. One attendee recalled seeing the device “sail through the air” before it hit the ground near the stage, with participants initially unsure of what had happened. Many followed police instructions to move back, while organisers worked with officers to manage the evacuation calmly.
Despite the scare, attendees later continued the rally in other parts of the city, determined not to let the incident derail their demonstration. No serious injuries were reported, according to police, though the shock of the moment lingered among those present.
Security Response and Broader Implications
The incident drew significant law enforcement resources, including specialist bomb squads and forensic units, and prompted the establishment of an exclusion zone around the plaza. Authorities emphasised that, at this stage, they do not believe there is an ongoing threat to the broader public, though the investigation remains active.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese publicly called for the suspect “to face the full force of the law” and condemned the act as shocking and unacceptable, stressing the importance of upholding public safety and unity during national events. Political leaders across the spectrum expressed support for the police response and solidarity with those affected.
Context: Invasion Day and Public Demonstrations
Invasion Day protests — held on January 26, the same date as Australia Day — are annual events where Indigenous Australians, supporters and allies highlight historical injustices and call for greater recognition of Indigenous rights. This rally in Perth was one of many across the country, with tens of thousands participating in peaceful demonstrations.
Most events across Australia remained calm and peaceful, but the Perth incident underscored the challenges in securing large public gatherings and the importance of vigilant crowd safety measures. Police forces across the country reiterated their commitment to ensuring that citizens can exercise their rights to protest without fear of violence or harm.
Investigation and Next Steps
As investigations continue, authorities are reviewing digital evidence, conducting interviews, and analyzing materials seized during searches. Police have indicated that further charges might be laid depending on what emerges from ongoing forensic work.
The case also raises broader questions about public event safety, mental health services, and the monitoring of extremist behaviours. Community leaders and security experts are expected to engage in discussions on how to prevent similar incidents in the future while protecting the right to peaceful protest.
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