Man arrested over alleged ‘mass casualty event’ terrorist plot

A man allegedly motivated by racist ideology planned a “mass casualty” terror attack targeting public buildings and Muslim places of worship, authorities say.

Jayson Joseph Michaels, from the town of Bindoon north of Perth, appeared in Perth Magistrates Court on Friday, facing five charges, including acting in preparation for a terrorist act.

The Western Australia Joint Counter Terrorism Team charged Michaels following an investigation into his online activities and the execution of a search warrant at his home.

At a press conference on Friday afternoon, Premier Roger Cook provided further details of the alleged terrorist plot.

“Police allege the man was planning a mass casualty event on a range of public buildings across Perth, including the WA Police Headquarters, WA Parliament House and Muslim faith places of worship,” Cook said.

Read more: Sydney Morning Herald