- Seven teens arrested after Sydney church stabbing
- Alleged terror act linked to extremist ideology
- Extensive police investigation underway; 400 properties searched
After “a number of associates were identified” in the wake of the alleged terrorist attack at the Assyrian Christ the Good Shepherd Church, counterterrorism police initiated an investigation.
In the aftermath of the stabbing of a bishop in a Sydney church, seven adolescents who posed an “unacceptable risk and threat” to the community were apprehended by Australian police.
All of the 15- to 17-year-olds are alleged to be members of a network that adheres to an extremist violent ideology.
A member of that network, aged 16, has been indicted on suspicion of carrying out a terrorist act after the stabbing of Bishop Mar Mari Emmanuel on April 16 during a liturgy at the Assyrian Christ the Good Shepherd Church.
David Hudson, deputy commissioner of the New South Wales Police, stated that “a number of associates were identified” in the aftermath of the alleged terrorist attack, warranting additional police investigation, according to authorities.
The joint counter-terrorism team, comprised of state and federal police, the national security agency of Australia, and experts in organized crime and extremism, initiated an investigation.
Mr. Hudson stated that allegations would be made that these individuals followed a violent extremist ideology motivated by religion.
The group in question was deemed to present an intolerable danger and menace to the inhabitants of New South Wales, and our existing investigative approaches were insufficient to guarantee public safety.
During the inquiry, over 400 officers executed thirteen search warrants at properties throughout southwest Sydney, but police stated that no evidence of the intended “violent act” or its target or timing was discovered.
Five additional adolescents continue to be interrogated by the Joint Counter-Terrorism Team.
“Invest in your future with Webull UK – get started with free shares.”
It follows the extension of an order by a judge of the Australian Federal Court prohibiting the social media platform X from displaying recordings of the bishop being stabbed repeatedly.
As of 10 May, Justice Geoffrey Kennett has prolonged the prohibition that was instituted by the court on Monday.
Elon Musk, chief executive officer of X, expressed disapproval of the moratorium and accused Australia of censorship.
Musk was subsequently criticized by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who referred to him as an “arrogant billionaire who believes he is above the law.”
