NSW Police Deputy Commissioner David Hudson announced that comprehensive surveillance activities and intense scrutiny of individuals were being conducted as part of a counter-terror operation. Meetings were held between partner agencies to review and consider evidence. The group of teenagers arrested in the operation was deemed to pose an unacceptable risk to the people of New South Wales. The individuals arrested were aged 15, 16, and 17 years old. The investigation focused on identifying and understanding the alleged extremist ideology of the offender involved in the Wakeley stabbing, as well as his network of associates and peers.
The Wakeley stabbing investigation also looked into the subsequent riot that erupted after the stabbing incident. Thousands of people gathered at a church as police arrived to take the alleged attacker into custody. A riot ensued as some individuals in the crowd turned on the police, throwing projectiles and causing injuries to more than 50 officers. It was discovered that some of the rioters had no connection to the church but had arrived after learning about the attack through social media. In addition to the teenagers arrested in the terror raids, two more alleged rioters, aged 52 and 31, were arrested and charged with rioting and related offenses.
In total, seven men were arrested for their involvement in the riot, but police anticipated that the number of individuals charged could reach up to 50 as investigations continued. The older man was charged with assaulting a police officer during the riot, while the younger man was charged with throwing a projectile at an officer. The incident highlighted the challenges that law enforcement faced in maintaining public safety and dealing with violent outbreaks. Police worked diligently to gather evidence and hold those responsible for the riot accountable for their actions.
The joint efforts of partner agencies and law enforcement resulted in the successful arrest of individuals connected to the Wakeley stabbing and subsequent riot. Deputy Commissioner David Hudson emphasized the importance of addressing the risk posed by extremist ideologies and taking proactive measures to ensure public safety. The investigation into the Wakeley stabbing aimed to uncover the motivations behind the attack and identify any potential network of individuals supporting or influenced by extremist views.
The collaboration between various agencies and police departments demonstrates a coordinated approach to tackling complex criminal activities and ensuring the security of the community. With ongoing investigations and charges being laid against numerous individuals involved in the Wakeley incident, law enforcement authorities in New South Wales remained committed to upholding the law and protecting the public from potential threats. The comprehensive surveillance activities and scrutiny of individuals underscored the proactive measures taken to prevent and respond to acts of violence and extremism in the region.
