Australian police say they have foiled a major terrorist attack on the country, and have arrested 17 men on charges of committing to “violent jihad in Australia.”
In raids in Sydney and Melbourne, police seized chemicals, firearms, computers, backpacks, and travel documents.
“Intelligence was received that a group was making arrangements to stockpile chemicals and other materials capable of making explosives,” said Morris Iemma, the New South Wales state premier.
Australian media had reported that possible targets were the Sydney Opera House, the harbor bridge, oil refineries, and the stock exchange.