Queensland counter-terrorism police have charged a 13-year-old with planning an attack on a regional school north of Brisbane. The teenager was arrested last Thursday after allegedly making threats at a business in Maryborough while armed with a knife.
Police Raid and Evidence
Counter-terrorism police subsequently carried out a raid of the boy's house and seized devices. They allege that evidence of a planned attack was discovered on those devices. Acting Detective Superintendent Jason Hindmarsh, from the counter-terrorism investigation group, stated that the 13-year-old was "quite well advanced" in plans to cause death and grievous bodily harm, posing an "imminent threat."
Threat to School Community
"There was a threat to the school, and particularly our young people at that school," Hindmarsh said. He noted that the boy was not seeking to further any "ideological cause," and his devices were still being reviewed. The motivation behind the planned attack remains a key line of inquiry. "It's too early to say if there was an ideological, religious or political motivation," Hindmarsh added.
Online Radicalization Investigation
Police are investigating whether the boy was radicalized online. "That's part of our ongoing investigation as we analyze the devices," Hindmarsh said.
Charges Filed
The boy has been charged with preparation or planning to cause death or grievous bodily harm and possessing or controlling violent extremist material obtained or accessed using a carriage service. He is also accused of attempting to enter premises with intent, going armed so as to cause fear, making threats, and possessing a thing intended for use in connection with an offense. These latter offenses allegedly occurred at a business on Saltwater Creek Road at about 9 a.m. on Thursday while armed with a large knife.
Community Support
Hindmarsh emphasized that there is no ongoing threat to the community and that support will be provided for the school community and the young alleged offender. A spokesperson for the education department said guidance officer support is available for any students who may require it.
The boy was refused bail at Maryborough Children's Court on Monday.
