Foiling of Potential Terrorist Operation in Melbourne; Five Arrested

Australian police say they have uncovered and thwarted a "planned terrorist attack" set for Christmas Day. Six to seven individuals were arrested in connection with this, five of whom remain in custody. Australian police report that all detainees are aged between 20 and 30. Andrew Calvyn, a federal police inspector, stated on December 24 that "we have successfully prevented an attack that we believe posed an immediate terrorist threat in Melbourne." According to Calvyn, security forces believe this threat has now been neutralized. Graham Ashton, another senior police official, told reporters that the planned attack was to occur at Federation Square, Flinders Station, and St. Paul's Cathedral. Ashton mentioned that the suspects intended to use explosives, and police also discovered knives and other weapons. The police noted that the suspects had "radicalized themselves" but were influenced by the group known as the "Islamic State." This suggests that there may not be a direct link between these individuals and ISIS militants. Reuters reported, citing a police statement, that six individuals were arrested, with four remaining in custody. The Australian newspaper "The Age" and several other publications stated that seven individuals were arrested, with five still detained. All those remaining in custody are men aged between 21 and 26. According to police, the detainees were born in Australia, except for one who was born in Egypt, and some have Lebanese ancestry. Malcolm Turnbull, the Prime Minister of Australia, stated that the planned attack was "one of the most dangerous potential attacks uncovered in recent years." Turnbull also warned that security forces cannot prevent all potential threats and urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the police. Bill Shorten, the opposition leader, expressed concern over the incident and encouraged citizens to enjoy their Christmas holidays: "A few extremists who want to destroy the Australian way of life succeed when we give in to them." Federation Square, which police indicated was to be one of the potential attack sites, is a busy and touristy area in Melbourne, covering 3.2 hectares and hosting various events. Christmas and New Year celebrations this year are taking place under the shadow of threats and terrorist attacks in recent months, with some officials and countries expressing concern about the possibility of further attacks. Less than a week prior, a truck attack on people at a Christmas market in western Berlin left 12 dead and nearly 50 injured.