A 16-year-old boy has been charged with a terrorism offence that police allege is linked to Anzac Day commemorations.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Officers from the NSW Joint Counter Terrorism Team arrested the teenager near his Auburn home on Sunday.
He was taken to Auburn Police Station, where he was charged with one count of acts in preparation for, or planning, a terrorist act. The offence carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.
"Clearly we have taken swift action to ensure community safety on the eve of a sacred day on the Australian calendar," NSW Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione said.
"I want to assure the NSW community that our counter terrorism capability is such that we were able to move quickly to prevent harm.
"The age of the individual is obviously a concern for us, and it remains a measure of the ongoing task facing law enforcement and the community.
"Anzac Day should be observed by all in our community free from fear and I would encourage everyone to enjoy this special day."
The 16-year-old was refused bail and will appear in a children's court on Monday.
AAP