Teenager Charged with Terrorism Offence After Sydney Church Stabbing

In a significant development, a 16-year-old adolescent has been formally charged with a terrorism offence today, stemming from an intensive investigation conducted by the Joint Counter Terrorism Team Sydney in relation to an alleged stabbing incident at a church in Sydney.

The events unfolded on Monday evening, April 15, 2024, around 7:10 pm, when law enforcement authorities responded to distressing reports of a stabbing incident at a church situated at the intersection of Box Road and Welcome Street in Wakeley. Upon arrival, officers from the Fairfield City Police Area Command encountered a 53-year-old individual with severe head injuries, indicating the gravity of the situation. Additionally, a 39-year-old man sustained lacerations and a shoulder injury while attempting to intervene in the altercation.
The situation escalated further as it was revealed that a 16-year-old male, who had been restrained by members of the public, was subsequently apprehended by law enforcement personnel. Following this, investigators from the Joint Counter Terrorism Team Sydney took a proactive step by attending a medical facility later in the day, Thursday, April 18, 2024, to conduct a thorough interview with the adolescent suspect.

Subsequently, the 16-year-old was formally charged under section 101.1 of the Criminal Code Act (Commonwealth) 1995 for committing a terrorist act. This offence carries a severe penalty of imprisonment for life, highlighting the gravity of the charges laid against the individual. The accused has been denied bail and is slated to appear before a bedside court hearing scheduled for tomorrow, Friday, April 19, 2024.

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The Joint Counter Terrorism Team Sydney, comprising personnel from the NSW Police Force, Australian Federal Police, Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO), and NSW Crime Commission, has been instrumental in swiftly responding to and investigating the matter, underscoring the collaborative efforts in ensuring public safety and security.
In light of these developments, authorities urge members of the public to remain vigilant and report any information related to extremist activities or potential threats to community safety, emphasizing the importance of every piece of information, regardless of its perceived significance. Individuals can contact the National Security Hotline at 1800 123 400 to report any relevant information.

Furthermore, individuals with information pertaining to criminal activities are encouraged to reach out to Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or via the online portal at https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. All information provided will be treated with utmost confidentiality, and the public is reminded to refrain from reporting information through NSW Police social media channels.