Seven men, aged between 19 and 24, were released from police custody on Friday after being detained in Sydney the previous day. The group, originating from Victoria, were arrested following a tactical police operation in Liverpool.
Dramatic Arrest and Swift Release
Tactical police used a vehicle to stop the men’s convoy, suspecting they were potentially travelling to Bondi beach to commit a violent act. The arrests were made under special counter-terrorism powers, allowing for detention without charge beyond the usual six-hour limit. However, New South Wales Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon conceded on Friday that “the justification for their ongoing detention no longer exists.”
The men maintain their innocence, stating they were on holiday in Sydney and travelling to their Airbnb. One of the men told reporters, “We didn’t do nothing wrong, there was nothing found on us.” Another stated he was injured during the arrest, claiming officers said, “bloody terrorists.” Their lawyer, Ahmed Dib, indicated they are considering legal action.
Investigation and Concerns
Police acted on information from another agency regarding a potential planned violent act, including at Bondi beach. While a possible link to Islamic extremist ideology was being investigated, Commissioner Lanyon stressed there was no definitive connection between the group and the perpetrators of the Bondi beach shooting, Sajid and Naveed Akram. A knife was seized from the vehicles, but no firearms were found.
The NSW Premier, Chris Minns, praised the police response as decisive, stating, “[The police are] not mucking around and I don’t think anyone in NSW wants them to muck around.” Authorities have stated they will continue to monitor the men while they remain in New South Wales.
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the men’s initial arrest?
The men were arrested on suspicion of plotting a violent act, based on information received by police from another agency. They were travelling in convoy towards Sydney, and authorities considered the possibility they were headed to Bondi beach.
What evidence did police have against the men?
Police believed the men might have been planning a violent act, but Commissioner Lanyon conceded there was not enough evidence to lay charges. One knife was seized, but no firearms were found.
What is the current status of the investigation?
The men have been released from custody and are not subject to bail conditions. Police will continue to monitor them while they are in New South Wales, and an investigation into a possible link to Islamic extremist ideology is ongoing.
Given the recent events at Bondi Beach and the heightened security concerns, how might this incident impact public perception of safety and security in New South Wales?
