Arabic version: مراهق من بريسبان يواجه المحاكمة بتهمة مؤامرة إرهابية ضد الحزب الليبرالي

Prosecutors have alleged a private Brisbane schoolboy plotted an attack on the Liberal Party using homemade explosives. The teenager was 15 at the time of his arrest and is facing trial in Brisbane charged with terrorism offences.

According to ABC News, the Crown alleges the defendant intended to target a public event with a bomb. He has pleaded not guilty to one count of acts done in preparation for or in planning a terrorist act. The trial is expected to run for 10 days.

In her opening address, prosecutor Sally Flynn KC stated that the defendant was influenced by American terrorist Ted Kaczynski, known as the “Unabomber.” Police were first alerted to the teenager’s alleged plans in July 2024 by one of his friends after it was not carried out. Flynn indicated that a search of the defendant’s devices revealed he had been researching how to make explosive devices and had purchased equipment to make them.

The jury was shown transcripts of WhatsApp messages, diary entries, and receipts for products allegedly acquired by the defendant. Furthermore, the prosecution plans to present videos that purportedly show the accused testing potential explosives. Flynn noted that police found chemicals wrapped in aluminium foil during a search of the defendant’s home, which could potentially be used to produce harmful gases.

The prosecution contends that the defendant planned an attack or attacks on premises and or persons associated with or perceived to be associated with the Liberal Party. Messages exchanged between the defendant and a friend indicated discussions about bomb-making techniques and potential targets, including a Labour Day march in Brisbane. The trial will continue with further presentations from both the prosecution and defense.