'ISIS missile plot': Man arrested by counter terror police in rural raid
A 42-year-old man has been arrested for allegedly developing "high-tech missiles and laser warning devices" for ISIS in a raid conducted by AFP counter terror officers in Young.
The man was arrested in Young in the NSW Riverina following an 18-month operation.
While the activity is believed to be connected to the Islamic State it is reported there was no alleged plot to carry out an attack on Australian soil.
This afternoon there was a joint press conference held by Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull with the Minister for Justice, The Hon Michael Keenan MP and the Australian Federal Police Commissioner, Andrew Colvin OAM.
"Police will allege that the man arrested has sought to advise ISIL on how to develop hi-tech weapons capability," Turnbull said.
It's understood the man "was born in Australia. He was an Australian citizen."
The accused has since been taken to Young Police Station where he is expected to be charged with two counts of preparations for incursions into foreign countries for purpose of engaging in hostile activities – giving or receiving goods and services to promote the commission of an offence - contrary to section 119.4(5) of the Criminal Code Act 1995 (Cth).
These offences carry a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.
One offence contrary to section 3LA (5) of the Crimes Act 1914 (Cth) –person with knowledge of a computer or a computer system failing to comply with an order – which carries a maximum penalty of two years’ imprisonment.
AFP Assistant Commissioner Counter Terrorism Ian McCartney said Tuesday's arrest follows more than 18 months of complex investigations into the matter.
“We know that gathering evidence in these cases takes a considerable amount of time, and I would like to thank our officers for their commitment and dedication in pursuing this operation,” Assistant Commissioner McCartney said.
“Make no mistake, anyone allegedly supporting foreign fighters – whether through travelling to conflict zones, or by their actions here on Australian soil – remain firmly in the sights of law enforcement.”
Newsbreak – February 28
