Queensland CSIRO Scientist Allegedly Plotted to Overthrow Government with AI
A young Queensland scientist employed by the CSIRO has been arrested after allegedly plotting a violent attack on Australia Day anti-immigration protests, with investigators revealing his radical goal was to overthrow the government and replace it with artificial intelligence.
Alleged Plot to Target Gold Coast Protests
Sepehr Saryazdi, a 24-year-old PhD student working for the national science agency, was taken into custody by counter-terrorism police in the Brisbane suburb of Bellbowrie on Wednesday. Authorities allege he was making detailed plans to throw Molotov cocktails during a planned riot on Australia Day at Surfers Paradise on the Gold Coast.
According to investigators, Saryazdi harboured a deep-seated hatred for what he described as the "tyrannical Australian government" and wanted to see it completely dismantled. His proposed replacement was not another political system, but rather governance by artificial intelligence algorithms.
Experts Dismiss AI Governance as Unworkable Concept
Sociology experts have analysed this unusual ideology, suggesting it represents an attempt to "get away from what might be perceived as political decisions or biased decisions to just get the facts." However, they have firmly dismissed the practical implementation of such a system.
Professor Paul Henman, a digital sociology expert from the University of Queensland, explained the fundamental flaws in this thinking. "It's a very marginal way of thinking. Science isn't always black and white. Science is also contested," he stated, highlighting how complex governance decisions cannot be reduced to simple algorithmic solutions.
Police Response and Public Reassurance
Queensland Police Superintendent Brett Jackson has assured the public that Saryazdi was acting alone, with no additional threats identified following his arrest. "We don't have any additional information that there are any new threats or any associated threats," Jackson confirmed during a media briefing.
Despite this reassurance, police have vowed to significantly increase their presence across Queensland on Australia Day, deploying all available resources to ensure public safety. "I'm comfortable that we've got all available resources," Superintendent Jackson added, emphasising their preparedness.
Community and Institutional Reactions
The CSIRO has confirmed it is cooperating fully with the investigation into its employee, though the agency has declined to specify whether Saryazdi has been suspended or terminated from his position.
Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate delivered a defiant message to residents, urging them not to be intimidated by the alleged threat. "Don't let them win, a middle finger to the terrorists," Tate declared, reflecting the community's determination to proceed with Australia Day celebrations.
Michael Lockyer from March for Australia, the group planning the anti-immigration protests that were allegedly targeted, expressed similar resolve. "You just can't intimidate us. You can't intimidate Australians on Australia Day," he stated firmly.
Investigators stress that while Saryazdi's radical beliefs about AI governance might seem abstract, they had the potential for real-world violent consequences. The alleged plot demonstrates how extremist ideologies can manifest in dangerous plans that threaten public safety and democratic institutions.
