Teen arrested over alleged threats to high school, major events
An 18-year-old man has been arrested over a series of alleged serious offences following a “substantial operation” in Adelaide’s southeast.
It is alleged the teenager, whose identity has been suppressed, made threats against an Adelaide public school, as well as Gather Round and the Adelaide Fringe, demanding a significant payment.
The arrest on Wednesday followed a joint investigation over several months between the South Australian Police (SAPOL), SA Health, the Education Department and federal agencies.
Speaking alongside SAPOL Acting Commissioner of Police Linda Williams, SA Premier Peter Malinauskas commended the operation involving more than 100 SAPOL staff.
“The arrest itself required a very substantial operation, and there were men and women who put themselves in harm’s way to go and execute that risk without fear of failure,” he said.
The Premier went on to describe the case as the most “complex and significant” to come across his desk in his political career.
The teenager fronted the Adelaide Magistrates Court on Thursday and was remanded in custody to appear again at a later date.
Williams said SAPOL are confident the risk has been mitigated significantly. She said the accused did not currently face terrorism-related charges and no radical or religious ideology had been identified as a motive.
“The school is open today … and police and police security officers will continue to be present,” she said.
“We have worked with the Education Department to ensure the ongoing safety of children, the school community and the broader South Australian community.”
When asked about the threats made to South Australia’s major events, Williams did not elaborate on the details, but said SAPOL conducts ongoing risk assessments.
“We work with all event organisers, particularly with the Fringe, Gather Round, Adelaide Oval, all those major activities, and we continuously do risk assessments,” she said.
Stay informed, daily
“Police involved are aware of any permanent threat to those events if they’re occurring at that point in time, and they are managed effectively.”
In a statement released on Friday, the Department of Education said it “acknowledges the recent arrest made by SAPOL following their investigation into concerning emails sent to Glenunga International High School”.
“We extend our gratitude to SAPOL for their diligent work and to the staff, students and parent community for their support and cooperation during this time,” the statement said.
“The school continues to operate as usual and remains committed to maintaining a safe and secure environment for everyone.”
