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🇦🇺 Australia /Conflict & Security

Ex-ASIO agent seeks visa to testify at Bondi terror attack inquiry

From ABC Australia · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Sources not specified Under investigation
  • A former ASIO agent, known as Marcus, is seeking to return to Australia to testify at the Bondi royal commission regarding the December terror attack.
  • His previous visa application was rejected, but he has now reapplied and has also been contacted by NSW Police about assisting their investigation.
  • Marcus claims he warned ASIO about the attackers years prior, but the agency has described him as 'unreliable and disgruntled.'

A former Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) agent, identified only as Marcus, has lodged a new bid to return to Australia to provide evidence at the Bondi royal commission. The commission is investigating the terror attack that occurred in Bondi last December. Marcus's previous attempt to secure a visa was unsuccessful.

You have recently featured in media publications within Australia which has led us to understand that you are likely to hold information that is relevant to our investigations here.

— NSW Police OfficerAn email from NSW Police to Marcus indicating their interest in his potential knowledge regarding the Bondi terror attack investigation.

Adding to the urgency, New South Wales Police have also reached out to Marcus, seeking his cooperation with their ongoing inquiries into the Bondi terror attack. Marcus has expressed a strong desire to testify in person in Australia, citing security concerns and the sensitive nature of the information he possesses. He claims to have warned ASIO about the individuals responsible for the attack years before it took place.

However, ASIO has publicly characterized Marcus as 'unreliable and disgruntled,' a description he vehemently denies. Marcus has been living abroad for several years and has significant concerns for his personal safety. His prior visa rejection was based on Australian immigration authorities' assessment that he did not have a genuine intention to stay temporarily in the country.

I can assure you, we are open-minded and want to speak with you and take any information you have.

— NSW Police OfficerPart of the email from NSW Police expressing their willingness to hear from Marcus.

Following an appearance on the ABC's Four Corners program, Marcus was contacted by NSW Police via email. An officer indicated that his media presence suggested he might hold relevant information for their investigations. Marcus's legal representatives have stated his preference is to assist police in person within Australia, emphasizing the need for a secure environment and legal protections. The situation has garnered support from several federal politicians, with the opposition urging the government to facilitate his testimony.

unreliable and disgruntled

— ASIOThe description ASIO has previously given of the former agent, Marcus.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by ABC Australia in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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