5-5-2024 (PERTH) A teenager, purportedly “radicalised online,” was fatally shot by police after stabbing an individual in Perth. Although the incident bears the “hallmarks” of a terrorist act, authorities have refrained from categorising it as such.
WA Police responded to a call outside Bunnings Willetton on Saturday night, discovering a 16-year-old Caucasian boy armed with a kitchen knife. The teen had contacted police at 10:10 pm, vaguely indicating intentions of violence before abruptly ending the call.
Upon arrival, officers engaged with the armed teenager, with two officers brandishing tasers and a third drawing a firearm, instructing him to relinquish the weapon. Despite verbal warnings, the teenager advanced towards the officers, prompting them to deploy tasers before one officer discharged a single shot.
Meanwhile, a male in his 30s was found nearby with stab wounds and was subsequently treated at the scene before being transported to Royal Perth Hospital in a serious but stable condition.
Commissioner Col Blanch revealed that the teenager had a history with law enforcement, battled mental health issues, and displayed signs of online radicalisation.
“Members of the WA Muslim community alerted police, expressing concerns prior to the incident,” Commissioner Blanch acknowledged, expressing gratitude for their proactive role in identifying the individual swiftly.
While Commissioner Blanch acknowledged the incident’s resemblance to a terrorist act, he refrained from definitively labelling it as such, citing preliminary investigations.
Premier Roger Cook suggested indications of online radicalisation, underlining the teenager’s prior involvement in a countering violent extremism program since 2022.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese assured the public of no ongoing threat, following briefings from intelligence and security officials. He emphasised Australia’s stance against violent extremism, affirming the nation’s commitment to peace.
Imam Syed Wadood Janud of Perth’s Nasir Mosque condemned the attack, expressing shock and disapproval towards the perpetrator’s alleged online radicalisation. He commended the police’s efforts in ensuring community safety, echoing sentiments against violence in Islam.
Additionally, a man stabbed in the carpark prior to police intervention remains hospitalised in a “serious but stable” condition.
