Canberran charged over alleged Nazi salutes, trespassing at the Australian National University
A young Canberra man has been charged by police after allegedly performing a banned nazi salute after he was confronted over “propaganda-style stickers”.
The 18-year-old’s Weston home was raided by detectives from the Australian Federal Police’s national security investigations team on Christmas Eve and is expected to appear in court on Friday.
He is charged with two counts of performing a nazi salute, two counts of damaging Commonwealth property and two counts of offensive or disorderly behaviour on Commonwealth premises.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.According to the AFP, the man allegedly trespassed at the Australian National University several times in August and September, sticking “propaganda-style” stickers on buildings and other property.
In October, it’s alleged, the man was posting stickers at a shopping centre and performed the banned gesture when confronted.
Police further allege he performed another nazi salute at a different shopping centre on December 12.
Images and video released by the AFP on Friday morning depict a high-vis-clad man being led from his home to a police wagon.
Sheets of stickers referencing neo-nazi groups the National Socialist Network and the European Australian Movement can be seen in the footage alongside associated slogans including “White revolution”.
AFP Assistant Commissioner for Counter Terrorism and Special Investigations Stephen Nutt said anti-Semitism was not tolerated in Australia.
“Anyone allegedly performing nazi salutes is displaying criminal behaviour that brings pain and anguish to the Jewish community and divides Australian society,” he said.
“Anti-Semitism is a cancer that requires swift and direct action, which is what the AFP is continuing to do. Along with our law enforcement partners, we are committed to stopping hate, division and violence in the community.”
The AFP established the national security investigations team in September to target groups and individuals “causing high harm to Australia’s social cohesion”, Mr Nutt said.
Originally published as Canberran charged over alleged Nazi salutes, trespassing at the Australian National University
