An investigation into hate crime offences has led to the arrest of a 52-year-old Queensland man following an operation by the joint QPS-AFP Hate Crime Team.
Detectives intercepted and arrested him on the Captain Cook Highway at Macalister Range on August 27 after looking into reports of ideologically motivated threats of violence.
Police subsequently executed a search warrant at a Mossman property and seized an electronic communication device for forensic examination.
The man has since been charged with two counts of threats with a circumstance of aggravation involving a hate crime.
Authorities allege the charges stem from abusive, threatening, and antisemitic content directed at a religious organisation.
Detective Superintendent Heath Hutchings said the operation highlights the strength of the partnership between state and federal police in tackling emerging threats.
“The joint QPS-AFP Hate Crime Team reflects our shared commitment to protecting Queensland communities and ensuring matters that have the potential to impact community safety are effectively assessed and investigated,” he said.
“By combining the expertise, legislative capabilities and investigative resources of both agencies, we are better positioned to identify and respond to complex and emerging threats.”
“This week’s activity demonstrates the strength of that partnership and our ongoing commitment to working together to keep Queensland communities safe.”
The man is due to appear in the Cairns Magistrates Court on September 21.
