The vast majority of individuals charged in counter-terrorism operations carried out by the Australian Federa Police have been aged 17 years or youthful.
The AFP stated the battle within the Center East had additionally led to escalated threats of violence and advocacy of terrorism domestically.
Out of 10 operations carried out in 2024, 11 of the 15 people charged have been aged 17 years or youthful, with the alleged perpetrators radicalised on-line.
AFP appearing commissioner Ian McCartney shared the up to date figures throughout a senate estimates listening to on Tuesday.
“I can reveal we’re additionally investigating whether or not some discourse regarding deceased terrorists, or occasions within the Center East, has reached the brink of urging violence in opposition to teams or advocating terrorism,” he stated.
“I need to reassure the group that the AFP has not diverted sources from terrorism investigations.”
Mr McCartney’s feedback follows an escalation in Australia’s Nationwide Terrorism Menace stage, which was upgraded from doable to possible in August on account of fractures in social cohesion and a rise in Australians “embracing extremist ideologies.
In April this yr two teenage boys, aged 14 and 17, have been additionally charged with terrorism offences by NSW Police in connection to the Wakeley church stabbing which hospitalised Assyrian bishop Mar Mari Emmanuel.
On Tuesday, Mr McCartney additionally shared an replace into Operation Ardvarna, which was launched on October 3 after alleged Hezbollah flags and prohibited terrorism symbols have been displayed throughout a collection of rallies in Melbourne.
Mr McCartney stated officers have spent about 1100 hours on the operation, which incorporates reviewing 90 hours of CCTV and police physique worn digital camera footage, with 14 particular person at present beneath investigation.
Three search warrants have additionally been executed, and “a variety of cellular telephones” have been seized, in addition to an merchandise of clothes “depicting a prohibited terrorist organisation image”.
“If related thresholds are met, the AFP will present briefs of proof to the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions to find out if expenses might be laid,” he stated.
