Three terror raids carried out across Sydney

The Australian Federal Police conducted three terrorist raids across Sydney on Saturday afternoon.

The raids, conducted by the Sydney Joint Counter Terrorism team, took place in Surry Hills, Lakemba and Wiley Park. The operations are part of an ongoing investigation.

Fairfax Media understands the raids relate to a terrorist cell and a bomb plot involving aircraft.

It is believed that at least one man has been taken into custody as a result of the raids.

The bomb squad is at the scene of the Surry Hills raid on Cleveland Street, which remains closed in both directions between Elizabeth Street and Baptist Street.

Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull said in a statement he had been “closely briefed” about the operation which involves the AFP, ASIO and the NSW police.

“These operations are designed to disrupt and prevent plans to undertake terrorist attacks in Australia,” Mr Turnbull said.

“I have been kept closely briefed on the progress of the operations by the heads of our relevant security agencies.

“However, as the operations are ongoing, it is inappropriate to provide further detail at this stage.”

Mr Turnbull said his number one priority is the safety and security of all Australians.

“The public should be reassured that our security and intelligence agencies are working tirelessly to keep us safe.”

Source: Three terror raids carried out across Sydney