Counter-terrorism police have arrested three men over the shocking public display of highly offensive neo-nazi material across the Gold Coast.
Property raids in Pimpama, Oxenford and Toowong uncovered a number of hate symbol imagery, including banners, stickers and flyers.
It’s alleged one of the banners seized was displayed on the M1 at Helensvale in November 2022.
The men, aged 20, 21 and 42, are also alleged to be responsible for a number of incidents involving offensive imagery being posted in public areas.
The public attacks not only caused damage to infrastructure, but sparked major community concern.
IMAGE: Supplied QPS
Acting Detective Superintendent Leonie Steyger from Counter-Terrorism Investigation Group says these matters are thoroughly investigated and action will always be taken when offences are identified.
“Our primary focus is on keeping the community safe, the public has a right to go about their daily lives without being subjected to highly offensive imagery,” Acting Detective Superintendent Steyger says.
“Those responsible represent the smallest minority of our communities, and my team will continue to disrupt and charge individuals who are motivated by this type of behaviour.”
A 21-year-old Toowong man has been charged with two counts of wilful damage and two counts of contravening storage measures and other precautions about access to restricted items.
A 20-year-old Pimpama man has been charged with two counts of wilful damage.
A 42-year-old Oxenford man has been charged with one count of wilful damage and one count of public nuisance.
All three men are expected to appear in the Brisbane Magistrates Court on February 28.
Members of the public who witness this behaviour are encouraged to contact police.
If you have information for Police, please contact Policelink on 131 444 or provide information using their online form 24 hours per day.
You can also report information about crime anonymously to Crime Stoppers by calling 1800 333 000 or via crimestoppersqld.com.au 24 hours per day. Crime Stoppers is a registered charity and community volunteer organisation.
