A 32-year-old man from Bentleigh East is facing charges over the alleged importation of dozens of conducted energy devices and canisters of pepper spray into Victoria, following an investigation involving the Australian Federal Police (AFP) and the Australian Border Force (ABF).

According to police, the investigation began on 13 August 2026, when the AFP received information about a suspicious parcel at a parcel-sorting facility at Melbourne Airport. An examination of the package allegedly identified two conducted energy devices and six cartridges.

Investigators subsequently examined other international air-cargo consignments. Police allege that several additional shipments, imported over a period of approximately two months, were intercepted and seized by the Australian Border Force.

Following further inquiries, authorities allege that the man imported a total of 71 conducted energy devices and 30 canisters of Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) spray, commonly known as pepper spray.

On 12 October 2026, AFP officers executed search warrants at residential properties in Lynbrook and Bentleigh East. During those searches, investigators seized approximately $10,000 in cash, postal records, 30 canisters containing OC spray and documents that police say related to possible future importations.

Officers also seized two mobile phones and a laptop. These electronic devices are expected to undergo further digital forensic examination as investigators assess the evidence gathered during the operation.

The man faces five charges across three categories. These include two counts relating to the alleged importation of restricted goods, one count of allegedly causing a dangerous article to be carried by a postal or similar service, and two counts of possessing controlled weapons under Victorian law.

The maximum penalties specified for the alleged offences include up to 10 years' imprisonment for the relevant federal importation and postal offences, and up to two years' imprisonment for the Victorian controlled-weapons offences. Maximum penalties do not determine the outcome of an individual case.

AFP Acting Commander Donna Tankard said authorities work with border officials to identify suspicious consignments and investigate suspected unlawful imports. Police emphasised that intercepting prohibited weapons at the border is important to community safety.

The investigation highlights the role of border screening, parcel inspections and cooperation between federal and state authorities in detecting potentially prohibited goods entering Australia.

The man was granted conditional bail and was expected to appear before Melbourne Magistrates' Court on 19 October 2026. The available report does not establish the final outcome of that court appearance.

The allegations have not been proven in court. The accused is entitled to the presumption of innocence, and any further legal findings will depend on the evidence and the court process.