Three Women Arrested in Sydney and Melbourne on Terrorism Charges

Three women and nine children have returned to Australia after years in Syrian camps. Police arrested the women upon arrival.
By Newsroom | Crime, Australia |

SYDNEY & MELBOURNE — Federal police apprehended three women upon their arrival in Australia on Thursday, with charges related to terrorism and crimes against humanity, including slavery offenses, anticipated. The women, described as "ISIS brides," and nine children disembarked from separate commercial flights in Sydney and Melbourne, marking their return after years spent in Syrian refugee camps.

ISIS bride taken in by AFP on landing - 1

The Australian Federal Police confirmed the arrests, stating that at least one woman is expected to be charged with four offenses related to enslavement and slave trading. Two other women have also been charged, with allegations encompassing crimes against humanity and belonging to a terrorist organization.

ISIS bride taken in by AFP on landing - 2

The arrivals sparked immediate scrutiny and heightened security at both airports. Witnesses described police boarding the aircraft shortly after landing to take the women into custody.

ISIS bride taken in by AFP on landing - 3

Safar's Return and Stated Intentions

Among those detained was Janai Safar, 32, a former nursing student. In a bail application, Safar reportedly cited a desire for her young son's education and integration into society as primary reasons for her return to Australia. She had previously expressed a strong aversion to returning, referencing societal differences and potential legal repercussions. Safar has stated her intention to raise her son in a non-Islamist environment.

Read More: 3 Women Arrested Sydney Melbourne Terror Slavery Charges

ISIS bride taken in by AFP on landing - 4

Government Stance and Public Reaction

Australian authorities have maintained that the government did not facilitate the group's return, though ministers have acknowledged that there are no legal measures to prevent Australian citizens from returning. The situation has drawn criticism from some political quarters, accusing the government of insufficient preventative measures. Discussions around deradicalization programs and the integration of the children have also surfaced.

Background

The group's return follows years of displacement in Syrian refugee camps after following partners to territory controlled by the Islamic State. The arrivals represent a complex intersection of national security concerns, humanitarian considerations for the children, and the legal process for individuals suspected of serious offenses committed abroad.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why were three women arrested in Sydney and Melbourne on Thursday?
Three women were arrested by federal police upon their arrival in Australia on Thursday. They face serious charges including terrorism and slavery offenses.
Q: What specific charges might the women face?
At least one woman is expected to be charged with four offenses related to enslavement and slave trading. Others face allegations of crimes against humanity and belonging to a terrorist organization.
Q: Who are the women arrested?
The women are described as 'ISIS brides' who spent years in Syrian refugee camps. One of them is Janai Safar, 32, who stated she wants her son to be educated in Australia.
Q: Did the Australian government help these women return?
Australian authorities stated the government did not help the group return, but they cannot legally stop citizens from returning to the country.
Q: What happens to the children who returned with the women?
Nine children also disembarked from commercial flights with the women. Discussions about deradicalization programs and the integration of these children have started.