Isaac El Matari, ISIS terrorist linked to Bondi gunman, walks free Sunday
Convicted terrorist El Matari is released after five years. Authorities had the power to seek extended detention. They chose not to.
Isaac El Matari was an Australian ISIS commander. El Matari is finishing a five-year prison sentence.
El Matari leaves Macquarie Correctional Centre in regional NSW on Sunday. The Department of Home Affairs did not apply for a continued detention order.
This order could have kept him locked up for five more years. The Australian Federal Police are seeking interim control orders.
These would restrict his movements and activities for up to 12 months. In 2021, El Matari was convicted of multiple terrorism offences.
His plans included establishing an Islamic State stronghold in the Blue Mountains. He also discussed attacking Sydney landmarks and the US embassy.
El Matari is linked to Naveed Akram. Akram is the alleged Bondi Beach gunman.
In 2019, ASIO looked into both of them. This was because of their ties to an Islamic State network.
- 5 years
- Sentence length
- 5 more years
- Possible extended detention
- up to 12 months
- Control order duration
- 2021
- Conviction year
Why it mattersA convicted terrorist is being released. He will only face short-term restrictions. This is not extended prison time. It raises questions about how authorities manage public safety.
AustraliaThis affects security arrangements in Australia and concerns for public safety given El Matari's previous violent planning and links to the alleged Bondi gunman.
Corroborated by7news.com.au
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 2 h ago
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