Arabic version: ردود فعل الآباء على تهديد متطرف مزعوم في المدرسة المحلية

Parents at St Helens State School in Maryborough, Queensland, are expressing shock and concern following news that their children’s school was allegedly targeted in a violent extremist plot. A 13-year-old boy has been arrested and charged with violent extremist offences related to the alleged threat, which police described as an “imminent threat” to the school.

According to ABC News, the boy faces charges including preparation or planning to cause death or grievous bodily harm, as well as possessing or controlling violent extremist material. He remains in custody after appearing in the Hervey Bay Children’s Court on Monday.

The incident has left parents like Tamika Wiechmann feeling frightened. “It is scary, it is very scary,” she stated, reflecting the sentiments of many in the community. Another parent, Andre Johnston, called the news “just crazy” and expressed worry for the safety of his children.

The boy’s arrest followed an incident at a local BP service station where police were called due to reports of a person with a knife. This led to further investigations, during which electronic devices were seized by the Counter Terrorism Investigation Group.

Fraser Coast mayor George Seymour emphasized the importance of children’s safety, stating that such charges are concerning for a community that typically feels secure. Health Minister Tim Nicholls also voiced his concerns, indicating that Queensland Health is collaborating with police as investigations continue. A bail application hearing for the teenager is scheduled for Friday.