New terror screening brings longer delays
TRAVELLERS are reporting delays and “mess” as tougher screening measures come into place in the wake of an alleged terror plot involving an aircraft.
Speaking after Saturday night’s arrest in Sydney of four men over an alleged terror plot to blow up an aircraft, Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull said the country had strong security systems in place to prevent acts of terrorism.
ABC reports that authorities seized material that could be used to improvise a bomb.
Authorities believe the group was intending to smuggle the device on to a plane to blow it up.
The government confirmed it was an Islamic State-inspired plot.
Mr Turnbull said security had been increased across all major airports as a result. The four men had not been charged.
“Every day, every hour, we are focused on ensuring that our defences against terrorism are stronger than ever,” Mr Turnbull said.
“Now, we have strong transport security systems in place in Australia to prevent acts of terrorism.”
It is not clear whether the alleged target was a domestic or international flight.
Mr Turnbull said measures put in place at Sydney airport on Thursday had now been extended to all major airports at domestic and international terminals around the country.
“Travellers should be prepared for additional scrutiny at screening points,” he said.
The government wouldn’t elaborate on the new measures but the Office of Transport Security has been advised security screening will now take longer.
Airlines are advising passengers to arrive two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international flights and to limit the amount of carry-on and checked baggage to speed security screening.
Justice Minister Michael Keenan said this was the 13th significant threat since 2014 when the terrorism level was raised to probable.
“Since 2014, 70 people have been charged as a result of 31 counter-terrorism operations around the country,” he said.
“The primary threat to Australia still remains lone actors.”
Heavily armed police raided properties in four Sydney suburbs and arrested the four men.
Australian Federal Police, NSW Police and the domestic spy agency ASIO carried out the operation on Saturday afternoon in Surry Hills, Lakemba, Wiley Park and Punchbowl.
“Four men have been taken into custody and are assisting police with their inquiries,” the AFP and NSW Police said in a statement following the raids.