rki.news
Sources Xinhua
CANBERRA, February 24 — Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has returned to The Lodge, his Canberra residence, after being evacuated for three hours on Tuesday evening due to a reported security threat.
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) confirmed they responded to an “alleged security incident” at 6 p.m. and that the prime minister returned safely following a thorough search.
“A thorough search of a protection establishment was undertaken and nothing suspicious was located,” the AFP said in a statement, adding that “there is no current threat to the community or public safety.”
Safety threats against the prime minister and other federal politicians have reportedly escalated in recent months. In October, AFP Commissioner Krissy Barrett established new hate-disrupter squads, known as National Security Investigations teams, to address threats targeting politicians and public officials.
Barrett noted in a Senate Estimates Opening Statement earlier this month that hatred and violence have been directed toward politicians, officeholders, and members of Australia’s Jewish community. She added that 21 individuals across Australia had been charged since the teams were created to counter these threats.
The AFP emphasized that security measures remain in place to protect the prime minister, federal officials, and the public, highlighting the importance of vigilance and preventive action against potential threats.