Hunter Region man charged under Terror Act after incident at Tim Crakanthorp’s office
A 19-year-old man is set to appear in court on Thursday after being arrested by the Joint Counter Terrorism Team in connection with an incident at an office in Newcastle yesterday.
Officers from Newcastle City police district apprehended the man around 12.30pm on Wednesday at a premise located on Workshop Way.
The 19-year-old man allegedly showed up at Newcastle Labor MP Tim Crakanthorp’s office carrying a knife, “tactical” gear and neo-Nazi propaganda.
Following his arrest, a search yielded several items that have since been seized for further analysis.
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The man, a resident of Raymond Terrace, was subsequently taken to Newcastle Police Station where he has been charged with one count of other acts done in preparation for, or planning, for a terrorist act, under Section 101.6 of the Criminal Code Act.
In the course of their investigation, authorities uncovered a document that had been circulated among various public figures and media outlets.
As a result, the accused has been denied bail and is scheduled to appear before Newcastle Local Court on Thursday.
Police have assured the public that there is no ongoing threat to the community related to this incident, although inquiries are still ongoing.
The Joint Counter Terrorism Team Sydney comprises members from the NSW Police Force, Australian Federal Police, Australian Security Intelligence Organisation, and NSW Crime Commission, underscoring the collaborative effort in handling such cases.
Authorities encourage anyone with information concerning extremist activities or potential threats to the community to come forward, emphasising the importance of reporting even seemingly insignificant details.
The National Security Hotline can be reached at 1800 123 400.