Teen Charged Over ‘Distressing’ Online Threat Against Sydney Mosque

IQNA – A 16-year-old boy in Western Australia has been charged in connection with an alleged online threat targeting a recently inaugurated mosque in Sydney.

Authorities noted that the threat, made on Masjid Al-Bayt Al-Islami's Instagram page, referenced a mass shooting.

The comment allegedly included a reference to "Christchurch 2.0," alluding to the 2019 attack in New Zealand where an Australian terrorist killed 51 worshippers.

The boy now faces charges of creating false apprehension regarding the existence of threats or danger, The Guardian reported on Wednesday.

According to a statement from New South Wales police, the teenager was taken into custody in Eaton, in south-west Western Australia, after the case was referred to WA police on Tuesday afternoon.

Authorities emphasized that there was no ongoing threat to the community. The boy was granted conditional bail and is set to appear before a children’s court in Western Australia on April 4.

"We also urge the public to remain vigilant and to stand united against Islamophobia and all forms of bigotry," said Mazhar Hadid, president of the Australian Islamic House.

The mosque, located in Edmondson Park in Sydney’s west, officially opened its doors last Friday, coinciding with the start of Ramadan.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the alleged threat, saying, "There is no place for this in Australia ... racism and Islamophobia will not be tolerated."

Similarly, New South Wales Premier Chris Minns described the incident as "very distressing, particularly as Muslims right across the state are participating in prayer during the month of Ramadan."

In response to safety concerns, the Australian Islamic House confirmed that nightly prayers would continue as planned, with an increased police presence to ensure security.

Source: Agencies