Sydney Man Charged with Anti-Semitic Threats

A 44-year-old man from Blacktown, Sydney, has become the first person charged under Australia's Special Operation Avalite, aimed at combating anti-Semitism. He faces charges for allegedly posting death threats on a Jewish community's social media page, specifically one count of using a carriage service to make a threat to kill and another to menace, harass, or cause offence. The Australian Federal Police (AFP) Assistant Commissioner Stephen Nutt emphasized that individuals engaging in anti-Semitic conduct would be thoroughly investigated and prosecuted. The task force was established following incidents of violence against the Jewish community, including the firebombing of a synagogue in Melbourne. Police expect additional arrests as investigations continue into other individuals linked to anti-Semitic activities. The accused is scheduled to appear in court on February 26, with potential maximum penalties of ten and five years for the respective charges.