Teen admits plotting Anzac Day terror attack, faces life behind bars
A teenager is facing life behind bars after admitting he plotted to attack an Anzac Day service in Sydney.
The 16-year-old was arrested on the eve of dawn services last year, after allegedly trying to obtain a gun and bomb making instructions.
Police also found handwritten notes at his Auburn home declaring Sharia law should be enforced around the world.
The teen appeared in the Parramatta Children’s Court to enter the guilty plea, which has angered Australian war veterans.
“When I was their age, I was carrying a rifle,” WWII veteran Allan Hinchliff said.
Other veterans blamed Islamic State fighters for brainwashing the teen online.
“I think they should be strung up by the balls, pardon my French, and let ants eat them alive,” Corrimal RSL vice president Neil McLean said.
The court heard despite the guilty plea, prosecutors and the defence are still agreeing on facts of the case and now have until April 21 when the matter returns to court.
The teen had been in a deradicalisation program, which his father claims was working.
“Luckily for him, he hadn’t made that fatal mistake that can’t be corrected,” he said.
The ongoing terror threat has forced extra security requirements at Anzac Day services across the country.
The additional cost has threatened events in NSW, including in Corrimal with a war veteran agreeing to provide security for free to keep the Wollongong event running.
