Teenager charged with terror, extremist offences
A teenager from Darwin could face years in prison after being charged with terrorism and extremism charges.
The boy was allegedly in charge of social media channels where he allegedly shared and talked about violent extremist material.
A teenager has been charged with several offences, including one terror-related charge. Alex Ellinghausen
Authorities, including the Australian Federal Police (AFP), began investigating earlier this month after receiving a tip-off, which led to a house in Darwin being searched on Wednesday.
They seized documents and electronic devices, which allegedly contained violent extremist material and references to violent attacks.
Authorities also allegedly found schematics for the manufacturing of 3D-printed firearms, as well as manuals that allegedly are for planning a terrorist attack.
The boy was arrested and has been charged with multiple offences.
They are: one count of collecting or making documents likely to facilitate terrorist acts, one count of possessing violent extremist material obtained using a carriage service, and one count of possessing or controlling firearms and explosives manufacture material obtained or accessed using a carriage service.
“It is deeply concerning to see allegations of this nature involving a young person, particularly where violent extremist material and information about the manufacture of firearms is alleged to be involved,” NT Police Acting Crime Commander Mark Grieve said.
The first offence carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in jail, while the other charges carry a maximum penalty of five years behind bars.
The teenager will appear in a children’s court on Thursday.
AFP Counter Terrorism Commander Paula Hudson said she was concerned by how social media was fuelling young people becoming radicalised.
“It is well-documented that terrorists and violent extremists use the online environment to radicalise vulnerable individuals, and technology is enabling this to occur at a rapidly increasing rate," she said.
“The speed and scale of radicalisation is becoming one of our most significant challenges, especially when it comes to young people.
“We need a whole-of-society effort to provide the protective factors that keep our youth safe from radicalisation and manipulation – and find ways to ensure they can be resistant to these threats.
“Without a serious intervention, the risk is our justice systems, mental health systems, education systems and financial systems will become overwhelmed by youth victims and perpetrators."
Information and support are available at Step Together, a helpline and digital support service for people seeking advice on how to support loved ones and protect them from negative violent extremist interest.
Share a tip-off, video or photo with us
