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Melbourne Man Charged After Alleged ISIS Propaganda Transmission

By Drooid · Sep 24, 2026, 1:12 AM UTC · How we work

Summary

Melbourne Man Arrested

Federal police arrested a 65-year-old Melbourne man as an alleged ISIS propagandist.
He allegedly pledged allegiance to ISIS between 2018 and 2020.
Authorities say he transmitted 10,000 files—including executions, torture, propaganda and attack guides—via an encrypted app from 2015-2020.
Case is seventh Victoria arrest since May after a 2020 border check.
He faces terrorist membership, violent material and carriage-service charges, with a ten-year maximum, and was due in court Wednesday.

Summary

McLennan Seeks Bail

Acting Home Affairs Minister Michelle Rowland said Bakit must face the full force of the law.
Lawyer Stephanie McLennan announced plans to apply for bail despite Bakit's poor health.
Police said they are cooperating with international partners to identify Bakit's associates and stop extremist networks.
Medical reports show Bakit suffers from diabetes, high blood pressure, cholesterol issues, and a recent stroke.

History

Historical Context

The 9/11 attacks in 2001 spurred global anti-terror laws, prompting Australia’s 2002 Anti-Terrorism Act that allocated A$1.2 billion to the Australian Federal Police, ASIO and border upgrades. Decades later, the AFP’s 2024 seizure of 65-year-old Bakit in Melbourne reflects that post-9/11 drive to dismantle ISIS-linked propaganda and prosecute foreign fighters, coordinated with Home Affairs Minister Michelle Rowland.

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Melbourne Man Arrested

Federal police arrested a 65-year-old Melbourne man as an alleged ISIS propagandist.
He allegedly pledged allegiance to ISIS between 2018 and 2020.
Authorities say he transmitted 10,000 files—including executions, torture, propaganda and attack guides—via an encrypted app from 2015-2020.
Case is seventh Victoria arrest since May after a 2020 border check.
He faces terrorist membership, violent material and carriage-service charges, with a ten-year maximum, and was due in court Wednesday.

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