Bunnings customer's tip caught pipe bomb maker
O'Brien, 42, made 15 pipe bombs in Canberra in January before police caught him following a Bunnings customer's report.
O'Brien stole galvanised pipes and caps from Bunnings. He then purchased more materials to build 15 bombs.
The explosives turned up across Belconnen, Florey and nearby areas between January 12 and 16. Some were detonated, others discovered in drains and greenbelt spaces.
Police found more bombs after a Reddit post alerted them to one they had missed. The crucial break came when a Bunnings shopper called police after recalling O'Brien's purchases and suspecting something was wrong.
CCTV footage from the store led officers to his home on 18 January. He was arrested and pleaded guilty in ACT Magistrates Court.
In August he was sentenced to just over two years in prison. He will be eligible for parole in December.
- 15 pipe bombs
- Bombs made
- January 12 to 16, 2026
- Manufacturing dates
- $127 in galvanised pipes and caps
- Stolen value
- December 2026
- Parole eligible
Why it mattersA customer's tip to police helped catch the bomb maker. It shows everyday vigilance can stop real dangers.
AustraliaThe incident happened in Canberra in early 2026. It highlights how community tips to police can stop serious crimes before they escalate further.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 3 h ago
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