The Australian Federal Police (AFP) last week identified a “young person” who posted an online threat targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi ahead of his visit to Australia, saying the individual had been
issued a formal warning following an investigation.
The threatening comment was posted beneath a Facebook post promoting the “Melbourne Meets Modi” community event, scheduled to be held at Melbourne’s Marvel Stadium on July 9.
Modi is expected to visit Australia this week for bilateral talks with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and to attend the Indian community event in Melbourne.
The online threat prompted an AFP investigation, with authorities confirming they had identified the source of the post and spoken to the individual on Friday.
In a written statement to The Australia Today, the AFP said it did not identify the individual but reiterated that it treats threats against federal parliamentarians, high office holders and international dignitaries seriously.
“There is no current or impending risk to the community. Following an assessment of the matter, the young person was issued a formal warning,” the AFP said.
The news outlet reported that the matter was brought to the attention of the AFP on the same day the threatening comment appeared online. Earlier, sources familiar with the investigation had said authorities had traced the source of the post as part of their inquiries.
The comment contained a threatening reference to the Prime Minister’s visit. However, the AFP said there was no ongoing threat to public safety.
