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Mistrust and fear after the Invasion Day bomb scare

Feb 2, 2026
Sarah Collard, Indigenous affairs correspondent who reports on issues affecting First Nations communities, discusses shock and fear in Perth after a suspected homemade bomb at an Invasion Day rally. She recounts witness accounts, the device's construction and the chaotic evacuation. She also explores community outrage over muted official and media reactions and the tense meetings between police and Indigenous leaders.
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ANECDOTE

Device Thrown Near Stage

  • Around 12:30 a device was allegedly thrown near the stage at the Invasion Day rally in Perth where about 2,500 people had gathered.
  • Sarah Collard said children, elders and vulnerable people were seated near the stage, raising fear the device targeted the most vulnerable.
INSIGHT

Device Designed To Maximise Harm

  • The device allegedly contained flammable liquid and shrapnel like nails and screws designed to maximise injury.
  • Police warned it had the intent and ability to cause serious injury and potential mass casualties if it exploded.
ANECDOTE

Arrest, Charges And Suppression Order

  • The arrested man is a 31-year-old from northern suburbs charged with intent to do harm and making or possessing explosives.
  • A suppression order protects his identity because his lawyers argued there could be a threat to his safety.
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