Melbourne man charged with supporting hostile activities in Syria

This is a joint media release issued by the Australian Federal Police and Victoria Police.

A 43-year-old man will face Melbourne Magistrate’s Court today charged with supporting persons engaged in the Syrian conflict, following an investigation by members of the Victorian Joint Counter Terrorism Team (JCTT).

The JCTT – comprising officers from the Australian Federal Police, ASIO, and Victoria Police – arrested the man at his Hampton Park home this morning.

It will be alleged the man provided funds and services to persons engaged in the conflict in Syria supporting Islamic State.

The man has been charged with providing support to a person who has entered a foreign state with the intention of undertaking hostile activities, contrary to Section 7(1)(e) of the Crimes (Foreign Incursions and Recruitment) Act 1978.

There is no current or impending threat to the community as a result of today’s activity.

AFP Assistant Commissioner Ian McCartney, National Manager Counter Terrorism, said the arrest was the culmination of an investigation spanning more than 16 months.

“These types of investigations are complex and protracted,” Assistant Commissioner McCartney said.

“Our investigators invest countless hours to ensure the safety of Australians, and to bring to account those who seek to harm our community and way of life.”

Victoria Police Deputy Commissioner Specialist Operations Shane Patton said this arrest should serve a strong message to those support people involving in the conflict in Syria.

“This arrest sends a very strong message of deterrence to those who would seek to provide support or fund terrorism that they will be investigated and held to account,” Deputy Commissioner Patton said.

“It is another example of a successful operation involving the Joint Counter Terrorism Team targeting terrorism.”

Note to media

Images and footage of this operation are available to download via Hightail here: https://vpdams.fotoware.com.au/fotoweb/albums/We5wyQ3qFmKFcEttGqFlW8QGDEq9gJ26QS5J2A/

Media enquiries

AFP National Media: (02) 6131 6333

Victoria Police Media (03) 9247 5205