Loaded guns brought into MCG during Carlton v Collingwood

The AFL world is reeling after an explosive security breach at the MCG saw two men allegedly sneak loaded guns into the stadium during Thursday night’s blockbuster between Carlton and Collingwood.

More than 82,000 fans were at the ground when the men reportedly carried the weapons down their pants and bypassed security.

Both were arrested and charged, and now AFL and MCG officials have promised sweeping security changes in the wake of what’s being called one of the most alarming incidents in footy history.

Victoria Police confirmed on Friday the men—aged 27 and 21—were already on bail when they managed to enter the ground, despite the presence of AI-enhanced security scanners meant to detect dangerous items.

It’s understood the MCG’s screening system flagged the pair, but a crucial follow-up manual search never happened. The result? Two armed spectators made it inside without detection.

“This is extremely disappointing and upsetting,” MCG boss Stuart Fox said. “Our number one priority is the safety of every single person who walks through those gates.”

The MCC, which manages the venue, has confirmed a full review is now underway, while AFL boss Andrew Dillon said both men will be slapped with lifetime bans from attending any future matches.

“There will be additional secondary security measures in place this weekend,” Dillon said ahead of Saturday’s Richmond v Brisbane clash. “We’ll work closely with Victoria Police to ensure something like this never happens again.”

The incident unfolded around 8.30pm when security staff flagged concerning behaviour and called in police. A search revealed the firearms—one reportedly loaded and with an altered serial number.

Charges against the pair include possession of unregistered firearms, carrying ammunition without a licence, and breaching bail conditions.

While no injuries were reported, the scandal has sent shockwaves through footy circles and left fans questioning how such a dangerous lapse in security could occur.

The men remain in custody and are set to appear in Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Friday.

Collingwood ultimately defeated Carlton by 17 points, but the result was overshadowed by a night that’s already being described as a major wake-up call for stadium security across Australia.

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