Five men arrested in counter terrorism operation

Victoria Police and the Australian Federal Police have jointly undertaken a

major Melbourne Joint Counter Terrorism Team operation during the early

hours of this morning.

Operation Rising has resulted in the execution of seven search warrants in

the South Eastern Metropolitan area, in the suburbs of Narre Warren,

Hampton Park, Hallam and Eumemmerring.

Five men have been arrested during the operation.

An 18-year-old Hallam man and an 18-year-old Hampton Park man were

arrested regarding terrorism-related offences.

It is alleged both men were undertaking preparations for planning terrorist

acts in Melbourne, which included targeting police officers. Part of their

alleged planning included targeting an ANZAC Day ceremony.

A third man, an 18-year-old from Narre Warren, has been arrested in

relation to weapons offences.

They are likely to be charged with a number of offences, relating to

preparing for and planning terrorist acts and possessing prohibited items.

An additional two men, an 18-year-old and a 19-year-old both from Narre

Warren, are in custody assisting police with enquiries.

Searches are continuing at several addresses in the South Eastern

Metropolitan area. Investigations are ongoing.

Victoria Police Acting Deputy Commissioner Shane Patton said the central

focus of this operation was ensuring the safety of the Victorian community.

“It was important for us to act early on a serious threat to our community.

Safety should always be the priority and today we have acted swiftly to

disrupt an attack intended to bring harm to everyday Victorians going about

their business.

“During ANZAC Day commemorations we encourage people to continue with

their plans, but remain vigilant. The community should be reassured by the

increased police presence at events.”

AFP Acting Deputy Commissioner National Security Neil Gaughan said this

operation shows that police will respond quickly to disrupt the plans of

those who seek to cause harm.

“We make no apologies for undertaking pre-emptive action to prevent

violent and unprovoked attacks from taking place,” acting Deputy

Commissioner Gaughan said.

“As has been the case in similar operations in recent times, early disruptive

activity continues to be a key strategy to keep the community safe.

“Community safety takes priority over evidence collection.

“All police services maintain strong relations with various community

leaders. Working closely with our communities is what keeps us safe.”

Victoria has well tested, cooperative, counter terrorism and emergency

management plans in place and constantly monitor and assess our

preparedness to respond to a range of emergencies.

The Melbourne Joint Counter Terrorism Team maintains strong links with

the intelligence and other agencies that give us the best possible

understanding of emergency issues.

The community should continue to go about their daily business and report

any suspicious activity to triple zero (000), Crime Stoppers on 1800 333

000 or the National Security Hotline on 1800 1234 00.