CANBERRA, ACT, March 13 -- Australian Federal Police issued the following media release:
Editor's note: Images and video are available via Hightail.
A Queensland man has been charged with making antisemitic posts on social media and the unlawful possession of weapons.
The AFP started an investigation in September, 2025, into a series of online antisemitic comments and threats toward the Jewish community posted on the messaging platform Telegram.
The AFP's National Security Investigations (NSI) team in Queensland traced the threats to an account allegedly operated by a Longreach man, 56.
The NSI team, with assistance from the Queensland Police Service, executed a search warrant yesterday (12 March, 2026) on a vehicle and house in Longreach. Police seized two flick knives, an extendable baton and electronic devices, which will be subject to forensic examination.
The Longreach man is expected to appear before Longreach Magistrates Court on 14 April, 2026, in relation to the following offences:
* One count of using a carriage service to menace, harass or cause offence contrary to section 474.17(1) of Criminal Code (Cth). This offence carries a maximum penalty of five years' imprisonment; and
* One count of unlawful possession of weapons category A, B OR M, contrary to section 50(1)(c)(iii) of the Weapons Act 1990 (Qld). This offence carries a maximum penalty of two years' imprisonment.
AFP Detective Superintendent Bill Freeman said the AFP took all reports regarding the safety and security of the Jewish community seriously.
"The AFP supports freedom of speech and political expression, but does not tolerate criminal behaviour, including threats and harassment," Det-Supt Freeman said.
"The AFP is committed to identifying and charging individuals suspected of harassing, menacing or threatening the Jewish community.
"There is no place for hate or violence in the Australian community. Anyone with information about possible threats to the community should come forward, no matter how small or insignificant you think the information may be."
People are encouraged to report any suspicious activity to the National Security Hotline on 1800 123 400.
In an emergency or life-threatening situation, contact Triple Zero (000).
AFP Commissioner Krissy Barrett announced the establishment of NSI teams in October, 2025, to target groups and individuals causing high levels of harm to Australia's social cohesion, including threatening the Jewish community.
Disclaimer: Curated by HT Syndication.
