Importance Score: 78 / 100 🔴
MCG Investigates Security Lapses After Firearms Incident at AFL Match
The Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) has acknowledged a “failure in security protocols” after two men allegedly gained entry to a high-profile Australian Football League (AFL) game between Collingwood and Carlton while possessing loaded firearms. The incident has prompted an urgent review of security measures at the iconic sporting venue, which hosts numerous major events.
Arrests Made After Weapons Found
According to police reports, officers conducted a search at the MCG on Thursday night, during which the weapons were discovered. This occurred as a crowd of over 82,000 spectators watched Collingwood triumph over their rivals, Carlton. Victoria Police were called to the venue at approximately 8:30 PM after security personnel reported that two men were behaving disruptively and refused to leave.
Following their apprehension, a search by law enforcement allegedly revealed that both individuals were carrying firearms and ammunition.
MCG Chief Executive Expresses Disappointment, Announces Security Review
Melbourne Cricket Club (MCC) chief executive Stuart Fox expressed his disappointment and concern regarding the incident, especially considering recent upgrades to the venue’s security systems last year.
“This event underscores the necessity for continuous evaluation and investment in advanced technologies to support our security operations,” Fox stated.
AI Weapon Detection Technology Under Scrutiny
In March 2024, the MCG announced its adoption of cutting-edge AI-powered full-body weapon detection technology, becoming the first venue in the Southern Hemisphere to implement such a system. This screening technology uses cameras, sensors, and artificial intelligence to scan individuals for prohibited items, alerting security staff to potential threats.
Fox confirmed that “further investigation is necessary” to understand how the breach occurred despite these measures.
Immediate Security Enhancements and Ongoing Review
“Our preliminary internal inquiry has identified a lapse in the thoroughness of the secondary and manual screening process,” Fox explained.
“In response, we are immediately enhancing the stringency of the secondary manual security checks, which may cause minor delays for patrons entering upcoming events.”
AFL Supports Security Overhaul
AFL chief executive Andrew Dillon stated that “additional secondary security protocols will be implemented this weekend.” He further added that “the MCC, in collaboration with Victoria Police and the AFL, will undertake a comprehensive end-to-end review of all security procedures at the ground.”
“With over 1.2 million fans attending AFL matches already this season, we are committed to working closely with authorities to ensure our matches and venues remain safe and welcoming environments for everyone,” Dillon affirmed.
Charges Laid Against Arrested Individuals
Police have charged a 27-year-old man from Broadmeadows with multiple offences, including possessing an unregistered handgun, unlicensed ammunition possession, altering a firearm’s serial number, possessing a loaded firearm, possessing a prohibited item under the Major Event Act, and failing to appear on bail.
A 21-year-old man from Roxburgh Park faces charges including being a prohibited person possessing a firearm, unlicensed ammunition possession, and committing an indictable offence while on bail.
Both men were remanded in custody and were scheduled to appear at the Melbourne Magistrates Court on Friday.