Counter-terrorism officers have charged a 24-year-old inmate at the Goulburn Correctional Centre for allegedly planning acts of terrorism. Photo: NSW Police.
A man has been accused of plotting terrorist attacks against police, military personnel and corrective services staff while he was already behind bars.
The 24-year-old was charged at the Goulburn Correctional Centre after Operation Zellaer began in late 2018 to investigate several people believed to be engaging in terrorism-related activities.
NSW Police allege the man was an associate of these people.
Separately, the NSW Police Force’s High Risk Terrorist Offenders Unit (HRTOU) had begun an investigation into the man over his eligibility for a supervision or detention order under the Terrorism Act.
As a result of that investigation, the man was placed on an Interim Continuing Detention Order, and evidence identified during this was referred to the NSW Joint Counter Terrorism Team.
In October 2019, the NSW JCTT, with the help of Corrective Services NSW, searched the man’s cell at Goulburn Supermax where he was awaiting trial for matters unrelated to terrorism.
Police allege evidence seized during the search related to the planning of acts of violent extremism within the community, aimed at police, military personnel and correctional staff.
On Thursday, the man was charged with two counts of acts done in preparation for, or planning terrorist acts. He will appear before Parramatta Local Court on 2 April. He faces life imprisonment if convicted.
“With the good work conducted by the NSW JCTT and NSW Police’s High Risk Terrorism Offenders team, this investigation uncovered alleged plots to harm the very men and women whom our community members trust to keep them safe,” Australian Federal Police Assistant Commissioner Scott Lee said.
“It shows why it is imperative for our officers to stay one step ahead of people who wish to turn to violent means to achieve their own ends.”
Police said there is no ongoing threat to the community over this investigation.
If you have information about extremist activity or possible threats to the community, you can report them to the National Security Hotline on 1800 123 400.
Original Article published by Albert McKnight on The RiotACT.
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