The case of Sepehr Saryazdi, a PhD candidate at CSIRO, has stirred significant concern after he was accused of plotting a potential terror attack on Australia Day using Molotov cocktails. This alarming allegation has led to his bail being denied.
During a recent appearance in the Brisbane Magistrates Court, Saryazdi faced a charge for preparing or planning a terrorist act. At just 24 years old, he had caught the attention of counter-terrorism officials due to suspicious online activities.
Commonwealth prosecutor Ellie McDonald detailed that the accusations stemmed from discussions taking place within a private Facebook group comprising over 50 members. "The defendant allegedly intended to instigate a riot on the Gold Coast on January 26, which would involve the use of Molotov cocktails; he had even procured the necessary materials for this plan," she explained.
Furthermore, it was revealed that Saryazdi encouraged others in the group to participate. He reportedly stated, "I will be leading the Gold Coast riots on Jan 26. If you know anyone in Melbourne, inform them to start stockpiling vodka bottles early." Additionally, he advised group members on how to respond if arrested, suggesting they should remain composed during questioning and rationalize their actions based on their views about the nation’s direction.
In another chilling post, the court heard him express, "Before I leave the battlefield on Jan 26, I have a few wishes in case I die," followed by specific desires directed at the Australian government and society. He also mentioned a belief that following a successful uprising, the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) would either attempt to eliminate him or subject him to severe mental control. Saryazdi's comments included suggestions for fellow members to acquire shooting skills and consider careers within ASIO or the defense forces to aid in their cause against perceived tyranny.
McDonald expressed her deep concerns, particularly in light of recent violent incidents, stating that Saryazdi poses a substantial threat of committing violence if released into society. She emphasized, "Given his mindset, there are no conditions that could ensure safety for someone willing to die for their beliefs."
On the other side, defense attorney Hellen Shilton argued that her client had initially moved from Sydney to Brisbane for his work with CSIRO but felt increasingly isolated. She explained that Saryazdi became influenced by new acquaintances and developed a keen interest in global politics, which caused him emotional distress. "He believed he needed to take action to highlight his discontent with governmental policies," she said, clarifying that his intentions were never to harm anyone but rather to attract national attention and unite those dissatisfied with the government.
Despite these arguments, Magistrate Penelope Hay determined that Saryazdi's explicit admissions of his intentions—particularly his views regarding the authoritarian nature of the Australian government and his desire to replace it with a cybernetic governance model—were too concerning. As a result, she denied him bail due to the high risk of serious injury to multiple individuals. He has been remanded in custody, with his case set to return to court next month.
