By SEN
MCC CEO Stuart Fox has revealed that human error was to blame after two men allegedly brought loaded firearms into the MCG during Friday’s game between Collingwood and Carlton.
Fox said that the venue’s security screening units ‘identified items of concern’, but that there was a breakdown in the secondary and manual screening process.
"Last night's incident is extremely disappointing and upsetting and highlights why we continue to explore and invest in new technologies to assist us in keeping the community safe,” Fox said via a statement.
"Our security screening units identified items of concern and further investigation was required, our initial internal investigation identified a breakdown in the thoroughness of the secondary and manual screening process.”
In the wake of the incident, Fox confirmed that security will be tightened at the venue, with fans warned to expect a slight delay while entering upcoming events at the ground.
"As a result, we will be increasing the extensiveness of the secondary manual security process and patrons may experience slight delays as they attend upcoming events,” Fox said.
"We will continue to work closely with Victoria Police, the AFL and our security provider in executing the MCG's security procedures.
"I want to thank Victoria Police and the AFL for their support last night and as always, our common and number one priority is the ongoing wellbeing and safety of all patrons and everyone involved in the delivery of an event.”
AFL CEO Andrew Dillon also issued a lifetime ban to the two men, who remain in Police custody.
"What happened last night is extremely disappointing," Dillon said.
Just before half-time of Collingwood's clash with Carlton, two men were arrested by police after they were allegedly found with firearms down their pants.
Both were charged and will appear in the Melbourne magistrates court today (Friday).
Seven’s Mitch Cleary revealed the duo were both out on bail at the time of the incident.
“This was a major security breach,” Cleary told SEN Breakfast.
“Two men found their way into the MCG with loaded firearms. They've been remanded in custody overnight, and they will face court today.
“We know the process is meant to unfold outside the MCG when you enter the ground. I was even asked last night to take my laptop out as I went in.
“These two men were in an argument with security refusing to leave last night and it was then when Police were called and brought into the situation just before half-time.
“As part of that, Police searched both individuals (and found the firearms). The extra layer is that we’ve learned upon being charged, they were both out on bail.”
As the footy world came to terms with what could have been, AFLPA boss Paul Marsh was scathing in his assesment of the incident.
"Every person who attends an AFL match, including the players, staff, and fans, deserve to do so knowing there are effective measures in place to protect their health and safety," he said.
"What occurred at the MCG last night is extremely concerning and frankly unacceptable.
"We have been in discussions with the AFL this morning and have an understanding of what transpired.
"Pleasingly and appropriately, they have committed to additional security measures for the rest of this weekend as well as a comprehensive review of security measures at all grounds."
In the wake of the incident, Cleary wouldn’t be surprised if security is tightened up at the venue, leading to longer waits for fans entering the ground on game days.
“Thinking about how this unfolds next, you can only imagine what it's going to be like,” Cleary said.
“You've got Anzac Day coming up, you've got Easter Monday, there's some massive clashes.
“I think security is going to be put into overdrive now. Usually, a reaction is made from these events.
“When there's 90,000 plus going in footy for Anzac Day, I reckon those fans will be in for a long wait going into the ground.”
The MCG has also reportedly recently installed an advanced security screening system that uses AI and advanced sensor technology to detect weapons.
Crafted by Project Diamond