Darwin police charge second teenager in alleged terror plot

A second teenager has been charged in Darwin following an investigation into an alleged terrorist plot. The Joint Counter Terrorism Team Northern Territory, involving the Australian Federal Police, Northern Territory Police, and ASIO, launched the probe after reports surfaced of an Australian user sharing violent extremist material online.

During a search of a Darwin home, investigators seized electronic devices, documents, clothing, and both controlled and prohibited weapons. Authorities allege the seized material contained discussions with a “mixed ideological motivation,” including the glorification of mass casualty attacks at schools. The teenager faces charges for making documents likely to facilitate terrorist attacks, an offense carrying a maximum penalty of 10 years.

This arrest follows the recent charging of another teenager who allegedly possessed violent extremist material and firearms manufacture material. AFP Commissioner Krissy Barrett noted that youths are often “manipulated” on social media, seeking answers to polarizing issues in online spaces that may lead them to violent platforms.