Bomb squad cordons off major highway after a ‘suspicious package’ was spotted – with helicopters circling and cops rushing to the scene
- ‘Suspicious package’ found near a Melbourne shopping mall
- Maroondah Highway closed in both directions
A major highway has been shut down following reports of a ‘suspicious package’ was found near a busy shopping centre.
Officers rushed to the Maroondah Highway at Ringwood in Melbourne‘s east shortly after 11am on Thursday following reports of a ‘suspicious package’ was located near Eastland shopping centre.
Police confirmed the highway has been cordoned off due to a safety check.
The bomb response unit is on its way to the scene as police helicopters circle the vicinity from above.
The highway is closed in both directions between Ringwood Bypass and Warrandyte Road.
There are unconfirmed reports a ‘bag with wires’ was delivered outside a nearby chemist, the Herald Sun reported.
‘East and west-bound traffic on the Maroondah Highway has been closed and motorists are advised to avoid the area,’ a police statement read.
Motorists are urged to use Ringwood Bypass and Warrandyte Road or Ringwood Street and allow extra time if travelling through the area.
3AW has been inundated with multiple calls from listeners about the police activity. according to afternoon host Dee Dee Dunleavy.
More to come
