AFP Cracks Down on Political Harassment: Individuals Charged and Put 'On Notice

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The Australian Federal Police (AFP) has arrested three men for allegedly harassing or threatening three federal politicians.

A new federal investigations team, established under AFP commissioner Krissy Barrett in September, is targeting groups or individuals that harm social cohesion.

Outlining the three arrests this week, AFP acting assistant commissioner Matthew Gale said a Sydney man had used a carriage service to share “a menacing message”.

A 30-year-old man from Sydney has been detained following accusations of harassment against independent Member of Parliament Allegra Spender. This incident occurred after Spender publicly denounced a neo-Nazi demonstration outside the New South Wales parliament.

A man in black shorts and t-shirt being arrested by an officer, with both faces blurred.

The man, identified as Joel Davis, allegedly affiliated with the National Socialist Network, faces charges related to threats directed at MP Allegra Spender. These developments come in the wake of her vocal opposition to extremist activities. The arrest has been confirmed by AFP sources.

In a separate incident, a 29-year-old individual was apprehended in Tamworth. He is accused of making online threats against Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, according to information obtained by SBS News.

“Current and emerging individuals and groups that are eroding our country’s social fabric by advocating hate, fear and humiliation and the AFP is once again putting them on notice,” Gale told reporters on Friday.

“There is no place for hate or violence in our communities.”

He expressed concern about the rise in threats against federal politicians, with a 63 per cent increase in incidents over the last four years.

The AFP received 951 referrals or threats against parliamentarians in the 2024-25 financial year.

Gale said AFP national security teams are working closely with Commonwealth, state and territory partners to provide the “most effective and disruptive policing response”.

“Know the AFP is watching you and ready to take action.”