A critical security incident unfolded at the ADM Congress, leaving attendees and organizers in a state of heightened alert. The incident began with a mysterious backpack, discovered by the Australian Federal Police bomb squad, which led to the evacuation of the entire event. This development occurred over four hours after the initial arrival of the police on the scene.
The situation escalated when an unclaimed backpack was found on the premises, prompting the evacuation of the main conference room during a speech by Minister for Defence Industry Pat Conroy. Thankfully, the owner of the backpack was later identified, and the contents were cleared, allaying initial concerns.
Police, including the Federal Police's bomb response team, are now on the ground, investigating the incident. The identity of the individual who allegedly threw items through the hotel windows remains unknown, but bystanders reported hearing chaos and confusion emanating from the event.
Commonwealth Avenue, the thoroughfare between the Hyatt Hotel and Nara Peace Park, was temporarily closed, and police continue to monitor the area.
The ADM Congress, a prestigious annual gathering known for its strong Defence Force presence and sponsorship, attracts approximately 500 Defence delegates. This year's event includes summits focused on financing, AUKUS, and space defence. Notable attendees include Vice Admiral Mark Hammond, Major General Jason Blain, and experts in national security. Speakers at the event include David Ball, director of space at Lockheed Martin, and Jason Held, chief executive of Saber Astronautics.
Announcements regarding defence costings and Indo-Pacific strategy are anticipated on Wednesday afternoon.
In a separate development, protests have been planned for later in the afternoon outside the Hyatt. Online posts from Students and Staff Against War ANU and the Independent and Peaceful Australian Network indicate that both groups oppose Israel's actions in Gaza and are calling for sanctions.
It is worth noting that the ADM Congress is sponsored by Electro Optic Systems, which designed a remote weapon system that was tested by the Israeli Defense Forces last year, according to a previous report by the ABC.
Stay tuned for more updates as this developing story unfolds.
