Australian police probe online death threat to PM Modi ahead of visit

Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s scheduled visit to Australia on July 9, an online threat has been reportedly issued against him and is being currently probed by the Australian authorities.

Threat post surfaces

According to a report by Australia Today, the threat was issued as a comment on an announcement on Facebook which was promoting the scheduled "Melbourne Meets Modi" community event at Melbourne's Marvel Stadium.

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"The roof tops of the stadium better close during the event or he will be coming to Australia for his death,” stated the message from an account with the name "Abu Mustafa" (translated from Arabic) as quoted by Australia Today.

Police probe begins

The report further stated that the incident was reported to the Australian Federal Police (AFP) on the same day the comment surfaced online adding that police have traced the IP address linked to the Facebook account from which the threat was issued. Police are also probing the origin and motive behind the post.

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An Australian Federal Police spokesperson said that no arrests have been made so far in relation to the case. The report further stated that he matter had been brought to the attention of the agencies responsible for security planning for PM Modi’s visit.

Security stepped up

Officials have not disclosed further details about the individual behind the social media account or the progress of the investigation.

Authorities continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the online post as security preparations intensify ahead of PM Modi's arrival in Australia. The investigation remains ongoing, with law enforcement agencies monitoring the situation closely.

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Security threats involving visiting heads of government are handled with high priority in Australia. Protective arrangements for such visits typically involve coordinated efforts between the Australian Federal Police, state police forces and specialist security agencies to ensure the safety of dignitaries and the public.

Visit next week

The alleged threat has emerged just days before PM Modi's official visit to Australia, where he is expected to participate in bilateral meetings and attend community engagements, including the Melbourne event at Marvel Stadium.