Bangkok: Seven men who were arrested on Thursday in Sydney, Australia's most populous city, on suspicion of "a violent act possibly being planned," are considering legal action against New South Wales state police over the incident. The men were detained for a day before being released without charge, and authorities have stated that their activities in the state will continue to be monitored.
According to Anadolu Agency, the men described feeling "shaken" and "overwhelmed" by their arrest. NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon reported that police intelligence had suggested the group planned to visit Bondi Beach, although he emphasized that there was no known link between the group and recent gunmen involved in a tragic incident at the beach.
The previous Sunday evening, a man and his son opened fire on Bondi Beach, resulting in the deaths of 15 people and injuries to 42 others in what police have labeled a "terrorist attack." One shooter was killed, and the other was critically injured and remains hospitalized.
Ahmed Dib, the lawyer representing the detainees, who are all from Victoria and range in age from 19 to 24, stated that the men experienced physical injuries during their arrest, with guns pointed at them. Dib expressed concerns about the police's actions, asserting that the authorities mistakenly believed the group intended to commit violent acts.
One of the released men addressed the media, clarifying that there had been a "misunderstanding" and denying any extremist beliefs. "We just told (police) we were here for a holiday," he explained, indicating the group's intent was purely recreational.