Counter-Terrorism Raids in Sydney Lead to Arrest of Seven Teenagers
In a dramatic turn of events, Australian police have apprehended seven teenagers in a series of counter-terrorism operations sweeping across Sydney. Authorities assert that there is a high likelihood that these youths were in the midst of planning an attack.
The suspects are reportedly associated with a group that espouses a “religiously motivated violent extremist ideology,” according to police sources. The raids are directly linked to the recent stabbing of an Assyrian bishop, which law enforcement has classified as a “terrorist act.”
These alleged offenders are classified as “juveniles,” ranging in age from 15 to 17 years old. Investigators have stated that these teenagers are part of the same network as the 16-year-old boy who has been charged with terrorism in connection to the bishop’s stabbing, which occurred during a live-streamed sermon.
During the attack at Christ The Good Shepherd Church in Wakeley, at least four individuals sustained “non-threatening” injuries, including the 16-year-old suspect. NSW Police Deputy Commissioner David Hudson revealed that additional individuals are also aiding in the ongoing investigation.
Hudson emphasized that these youths shared a common purpose and posed an unacceptable risk to public safety. Police had been monitoring them closely following the Wakeley incident, as they believed an imminent attack was likely, although no specific plans or targets had been identified.
As part of the operation, 400 police officers executed search warrants at thirteen locations in southwest Sydney. The targeted church in Wakeley is a hub for Australia’s Assyrian Christian community, many of whom have fled persecution and conflict in the Middle East.
Bishop Mar Mari Emmanuel, the victim of the recent stabbing, is a prominent figure within the community with a substantial online following. Known for his conservative and contentious views, he has been vocal on issues like same-sex marriage, Islam, government lockdowns, and vaccines.
Authorities have refrained from disclosing the religious affiliation of the teenage assailant. The joint counterterrorism investigation is still ongoing as police work to ensure the safety and security of the public.
