A house in Narre Warren South was raided again on Thursday following a joint investigation with the Australian Federal Police and Victoria Police. 87222 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS
By Danielle Galvin
OFFICER residents were alarmed to find they had a man facing terrorism charges in their midst following police raids across the south-east last week.
The 23-year-old was arrested last Wednesday morning and charged with four counts of collecting or making documents likely to facilitate terrorist acts.
The maximum penalty for the offence is 15 years’ imprisonment.
The Gazette spoke to Officer residents, who did not want to be named, about the shock raids.
They said the Officer community was stunned when news came to light last week that their town had been put on the map for all the wrong reasons.
“Several people commented that they were shocked and disappointed – and quite amazed for it to happen in this area,” one resident said.
Deputy Minister for Police and Emergency Services Peter Ryan said on Thursday that the investigation was well handled by the Victoria Police and the Australian Federal Police.
“Victoria Police and AFP executed search warrants in the Melbourne suburbs of Narre Warren South, Craigieburn, Hallam, Officer, Springvale South and Noble Park,” he said.
“Victoria Police advise that a number of items were seized, including a USB containing violent extremist materials, computer equipment, imitation firearms and a number of registered firearms.”
Victoria Police Assistant Commissioner for Crime Steve Fontana reassured people there was no immediate threat to their well being or safety.
“I would like to reassure people that we have not identified any immediate threats that pose immediate concerns to the safety of the community and we will continue to work to ensure that all steps are taken to protect all members of the community,” he said.
AFP Acting National Manager Counter Terrorism Justine Saunders said the arrest was a positive outcome for the community.
“The result of (Wednesday’s) operation demonstrates the importance of operations undertaken by Australia’s Joint Counter Terrorism Teams, and is an example of proactive law enforcement action to prevent terrorist activity in Australia,” she said.
“The AFP is committed to working with state and territory police, and the community in order to counter the ongoing and enduring threat of terrorism and ensure the safety and security of the community.”
Springvale bookshop Al Furqan was also targeted in the raids and a media release was sent out in response to the investigation.
“We very much appreciate your concerns and assistance, and reassure you that, despite the best efforts of the government, media and intelligence groups, our community remains unified and in high spirits, and we will not let the shameful tactics of the authorities intimidate or silence us,” the document read.
