BREAKING: An ex-ASIO agent has made shocking claims that Bondi Beach terrorist Sajid Akram openly supported the Islamic State as early as 2019. This revelation comes just weeks after the December 14 massacre in which Akram, 50, killed 15 people before being shot dead by police.
The former agent, identified only as ‘Marcus’, alleges he informed ASIO about Akram’s radicalization and connections to Islamic State (IS) years before the attack. This information raises serious questions about ASIO’s prior assessments that deemed the Akram family a low threat.
Marcus claims he relayed details regarding Sajid Akram’s and his son Naveed Akram’s involvement with an IS-affiliated group in Australia, including discussions about potential terrorist attacks in Sydney and plans to smuggle weapons from Lebanon.
“He justified his plans as it’s required from us as Muslims — to support the Islamic State,” Marcus stated during an interview on ABC’s Four Corners.
Despite these claims, ASIO has publicly refuted Marcus’s allegations, labeling him as a “single, unreliable and disgruntled source.” The agency emphasized in a statement that they had no prior knowledge of the Akrams planning any attack, expressing their deep regret over the tragic incident.
In a startling development, Marcus, who infiltrated radical groups under the guise of a cleric, asserts that he had reported the Akram family’s extremist ties to ASIO. He described the Akrams’ involvement with Isaac El Matari, a known IS leader in Australia, who was also present at a 2019 retreat attended by Sajid and Naveed.
El Matari was arrested shortly after the retreat for attempting to join IS in Afghanistan and has since been sentenced to seven years in prison for terror-related offenses.
Marcus claims that his relationship with ASIO deteriorated in 2022 and he has since gone into hiding overseas due to death threats. He vehemently denies ASIO’s accusations that his claims are fabricated.
The implications of these revelations are profound, raising urgent questions about the effectiveness of Australia’s counter-terrorism strategies and the oversight of radical elements within the country. As investigations continue, authorities are under immense scrutiny to ensure the safety of citizens and prevent further acts of violence.
What happens next? Watch for updates as further information emerges regarding ASIO’s handling of the situation and any new developments in the ongoing investigation.
This story continues to evolve. Stay tuned for more information as it becomes available.
