29 July, 2017
A multi-pronged counter-terror operation is underway with a series of raids being conducted across Sydney, with one of the largest shutting down a major Surry Hills thoroughfares amid unconfirmed reports of a "suspicion" being found.
AFP said: "Four men have been taken into custody and are assisting police with their enquiries".
The operation was carried out by the Australian Federal Police, New South Wales state police and the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation, the country's domestic spy agency. The safety of the community and police members are the primary consideration during this activity'.
Australian counter-terrorism police arrested four people in raids late on Saturday across several Sydney suburbs aimed at disrupting plans for "terrorist attacks".
"Motorists are advised to avoid the area or allow plenty of extra travel time", a spokesman said.
"These operations are created to disrupt and prevent plans to undertake terrorist attacks in Australia", Turnbull said.
Shouting and screaming could be heard as a man with a towel draped over his head was led away from the Surry Hills home by police.
"We knew them to say hello to and they seemed nice", the woman in her early 30s, who didn't want to be identified, told AAP.
An "explosive device" was discovered at the Surry Hills property and deactivated by a bomb squad, according to The Seven Network.
"I love Australia", she said as she was led away to a vehicle.
Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull said he is being closely briefed on the progress of the operations by security agency heads.
He said he would not comment further as the operations are ongoing.
