A Sydney man who allegedly supports the Islamic State terrorist organisation has been arrested after a NSW Joint Counter Terrorism Team (JCTT) investigation.
Police executed search warrants in Chester Hill and Sefton, NSW, yesterday (Friday, 18 June 2021) and arrested a 24-year-old Chester Hill man.
The man has been charged with membership of a terrorist organisation, namely Islamic State, and is expected to face Parramatta Local Court today (19 June 2021).
Yesterday’s arrest follows a seven-month investigation by the NSW JCTT into the man, whom police will allege had pledged allegiance to Islamic State.
Police will further allege the man’s rhetoric online was escalating, that he had collected a large amount of extremist material and he was in possession of several improvised explosive recipes.
Australian Federal Police Commander Counter Terrorism Investigations Stephen Dametto said the priority of the NSW JCTT investigators was to prevent any harm to the community.
“The actions of this man do not represent the Islamic faith. His actions are criminal and they represent hatred and terror,” Commander Dametto said.
“We will allege in court that this man was a member of ISIS and it shows there are still those in the community that seek to do us harm. The items found show that this individual posed a significant risk to the Australian community and we will act early to ensure safety of the Australian people”.
“This investigation shows that the influence of IS remains an enduring threat and it maintains the ability to inspire and radicalise individuals in Australia”
“The actions taken yesterday highlight the great partnership and commitment of the NSW Police, the AFP, NSW Crime Commission and ASIO in working together to keep the NSW and Australian community safe.”
NSWPF Counter Terrorism and Special Tactics Commander, Acting Assistant Commissioner Michael McLean, commended the dedication of NSW JCTT investigators to the safety of the people of NSW.
“Yesterday’s arrest is a great example of the strength of the partnerships and collaboration in Australia’s counter terrorism framework,” Acting Assistant Commissioner McLean said.
“The NSW JCTT works cooperatively and diligently to act in response to those who choose to follow an extremist ideology that is not compatible with the diverse, inclusive values of the community.
“Our greatest asset in combating terrorism is our community. You are our eyes and ears and we need you to continue to work with us to help us to keep everyone safe.”
The man has been charged with membership of a terrorist organisation, 102.3(1) of the Criminal Code (Cth), punishable by imprisonment for 10 years.
The NSW JCTT is comprised of members from the Australian Federal Police, NSW Police Force, Australian Security Intelligence Organisation and the NSW Crime Commission.
Anyone with information about extremist activity or possible threats to the community should come forward, no matter how small or insignificant you may think the information may be. The National Security Hotline is 1800 123 400.
There is no ongoing threat to the community relating to this investigation.
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