Following yesterday’s raids in relation to an ANZAC Day terror plot in Melbourne, an 18-year-old man has been charged with “conspiracy to commit acts done in preparation for, or planning, terrorist acts,” a Commonwealth offense.
Sevdet Besim, of Hallam, made a brief appearance in Melbourne Magistrates Court yesterday afternoon, and after a 30-second hearing, he was remanded in custody until his next appearance, which is likely to happen on Friday.
Five young men were arrested in the raids, three of whom were released after being questioned for most of Saturday. An 18-year-old man from Hampton Park remains in custody.
One of the released men, 18-year-old Lindem Sulejmani of Narre Warren, is likely to be charged on summons with offenses relating to prohibited weapons.
The five were arrested in pre-dawn raids yesterday. All are believed to have connections to Abdul Numan Haider, the teenager who was shot dead last year after a confrontation with police in Endeavour Hills.
Police said that their investigation into the five “ramped up” in late March, and “it became very obvious to us that their plans were specific.” It is believed the attacks could have taken place “any time” within the next week.
Victoria Police Acting Deputy Commissioner Shane Patton said that the attacks related to “edged weapons”, but that the police and public are no longer at risk.
He also added that the accused teenagers were acting by themselves.
“They are not representative of any religious, cultural or national group,” he told reporters.
Following the arrests, Prime Minister Tony Abbott said that “people should turn up to Anzac Day events in the largest possible numbers,” adding “the best thing you can do in the face of those who would do us harm is to live your life normally.”
via SBS News
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