Sydney – Police will maintain a strong presence at Sydney Airport this afternoon as one of the so-called “ISIS brides” arrives in Australia with her young son after spending years in a Syrian refugee camp.
The woman, who reportedly left Australia more than a decade ago to marry an ISIS fighter, is among four women and nine children being repatriated. Most of the group will continue on to Melbourne.
NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon said authorities would closely monitor anyone returning from areas linked to terrorist organisations. While he would not confirm whether arrests would occur at the airport, he stated that offences related to entering declared conflict zones or involvement with terrorist groups can carry penalties of up to 10 years in prison.
Australian Federal Police Commissioner Krissy Barrett previously indicated that several arrests were expected among the returnees.
Police said visible security would be present at the airport to maintain public safety and prevent disturbances. Authorities also confirmed that, if arrests are made, arrangements will be in place to ensure the welfare of any children involved, either through relatives or child protection services.