Queensland 'extortion' could have funded Syrian terrorism

A Queensland man could have been extorting businesses in the state's southeast to help fund terrorism operations in Syria.

Omar Succarieh, 31, is already in custody on terrorism-related charges for allegedly sending cash to Syria-based terror group Jabhat al-Nusra.

Police have now charged him with extortion after he allegedly tried to get $50,000 out of a Brisbane cafe owner with threats to his business, himself and his family.

The business owner handed over $10,000 in March to a man who is connected to Succarieh. That contact is yet to be arrested.

Detective Superintendent Mick Niland said he couldn't rule out that the extortion money might have been sent to Syria.

"There is a possibility, but for operational reasons we can't say anything further," Supt Niland told reporters.

Joint Counter Terrorism Team Coordinator Detective Superintendent Russel (Russel) Smith said it would be speculative, but not surprising, to suggest the $10,000 had made its way to Syria.

"We were investigating funding arrangements between Australia and Jabhat al-Nusra in Syria," Supt Smith said.

"(So) for me personally, it wasn't a big surprise to see this particular individual getting involved in other activity to raise funds."

Succarieh will apply for bail on December 11 in relation to charges of getting funds to, from or for a terrorist organisation and preparing for incursions into foreign states for hostile activities.

He'll face Brisbane Magistrates Court on December 19 on the extortion charge.

Anti-bikie Taskforce Maxima was originally investigating the extortion complaint, but teamed up with a joint Queensland and Australian Federal Police counter terrorism taskforce already targeting Succarieh.

"It really showcases the ability of our organisations to collaborate and exchange evidence and intelligence to bring about a successful result," he said.

Court documents allege Succarieh transferred two lots of cash, including one sum of $27,000, to his brother Abraham in Syria in February and June this year to help fund Jabhat al-Nusra activities.

They also claim Succarieh was arranging for visitors to join Abraham to fight in Syria.