Teen arrested in WA over alleged ‘Christchurch 2.0’ threat against Sydney mosque
A 16-year-old boy in WA has been charged over an alleged threat to carry out a “Christchurch 2.0” mass shooting 3800km away at a Sydney mosque.
NSW authorities alerted WA Police following reports from the Australian Islamic House — Masjid Al-Bayt Al-Islami at Edmondson Park that an alarming comment was posted to its Instagram page.
WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Sydney mosque targeted with ‘Christchurch 2.0’ threat.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.The alleged comment said: “I’m about to Christchurch 2.0 this joint.”
It appeared to be a reference to the 2019 massacre carried out by Australian Brenton Tarrant, who murdered 51 worshippers when he stormed two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand and opened fire. He was sentenced to life in prison.
Just before 5pm on Tuesday, WA Police arrested a 16-year-old boy in Eaton in Bunbury, 170km south of Perth.
He has not been charged with creating false apprehension to the existence of threats or danger, and is set to appear in the Bunbury Children’s Court on April 4.
“There are no ongoing threats to the community,” NSW Police said.
WA Premier Roger Cook said police would closely monitor online activity to ensure the Muslim community feels safe.
“You cannot hide in the dark behind a keyboard,” Cook said.
“Those who threaten peace here or anywhere else in Australia will be punished.”
On Tuesday, Australian Islamic House president Mazhar Hadid said “we are profoundly concerned” by the alleged threat and it is being treated with the “utmost seriousness”.
“Our community deserves to feel safe and protected, just like any other citizen of this country,” Hadid said.
“We call on the authorities to treat this matter with the highest urgency and to ensure that all places of worship are safeguarded against such acts of hatred and violence.
“We also urge the public to remain vigilant and to stand united against Islamophobia and all forms of bigotry.”
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the alleged threat of violence was “abhorrent”.
“The authorities have my full support as they investigate this matter. Those responsible must face the full force of the law,” he said.
NSW Premier Chris Minns said the reports were very distressing, particularly as Muslims are participating in prayer during the month of Ramadan.
“Racist threats and Islamophobia will not be tolerated and will be met with the full force of the law,” he said.
Originally published on 7NEWS
