A man has been charged after police allegedly uncovered violent extremist material on mobile phones seized during a vehicle stop in southwest Sydney on New Year's Eve. Abdallah El Chami, 31, was driving a Toyota sedan when he was stopped by patrolling officers on Dargan Street in Yagoona on December 31.
Initial Arrest and Charges
During a search of the vehicle, police allegedly seized drugs, cash, and three mobile phones. El Chami was arrested and charged with drug and vehicle offences, as well as dealing with the proceeds of crime. He appeared before the Bail Division Local Court on January 1, where he was granted conditional bail.
Discovery of Extremist Material
As inquiries continued, officers examined the three mobile phones and allegedly located violent extremist material stored on one of the devices. This discovery prompted further police action.
Subsequent Raid and Additional Charges
Police then executed a Commonwealth warrant at a home in Bass Hill around 6 a.m. on Wednesday, allegedly seizing multiple phones, storage devices, and a knife. El Chami was arrested again and charged with use of a carriage service to possess violent extremist material and possession or use of a prohibited weapon without a permit.
Court Proceedings and Bail Conditions
He was refused bail initially but appeared at Bankstown Local Court on Wednesday, where he was granted conditional bail to reappear on March 3. The bail conditions are strict and include home detention, regular reporting to police, restrictions on mobile phone use and internet access, and a $20,000 surety.
Additionally, El Chami is barred from being within 500 meters of any interstate or international departure point and from applying for new travel documents. Police have emphasized the seriousness of the charges, highlighting the alleged possession of violent extremist material as a key concern in their ongoing investigation.
