A 41-year-old man from Belconnen has been arrested and charged following the discovery of more than a dozen improvised explosive devices in Canberra's northern suburbs over the past week.
Arrest follows week of bomb discoveries
ACT Policing alleges the man purchased and stole materials used to construct the pipe bombs from a store in Belconnen. The investigation escalated when officers executed a search warrant at the man's Belconnen home on Saturday, January 17, 2026, uncovering items consistent with bomb assembly. The suspect was not present at the time.
Later that evening, around 10:30 pm, police received information that the man was at a unit in Gungahlin. Officers attended the location and took the man into custody without incident.
Fifteen devices found in public areas
The arrest comes after a concerning series of discoveries. A total of 15 pipe bombs were located on footpaths and in green spaces around Belconnen over several days. The first device was reported by a member of the public on Tuesday, January 13, with several more reports following on Wednesday.
All explosives were found within a one-kilometre stretch near Lake Ginninderra, between Joynton Smith Drive and Ginninderra Drive. Detective acting Inspector Anna Wronski stated that some of the devices were found partially destroyed and are believed to have already exploded.
Charges laid, investigation continues
The Belconnen man has been charged with:
- Unauthorised manufacture of a prohibited dangerous substance
- Possessing a prohibited weapon
- Theft
He is scheduled to face the ACT Magistrates Court on Monday. Police have indicated that investigations are ongoing and further charges are expected. Authorities have stated the incident is not believed to be terrorism-related.
In the wake of the discoveries, a significant police presence was seen in the area. On Thursday, detectives and forensic officers, supported by about eight police vehicles and a sniffer dog, conducted thorough searches along Joynton Smith Drive.
