Australia says 13 citizens linked to alleged IS members returning from Syria

A group of 13 Australians, connected to suspected Islamic State fighters, is set to return from Syria, according to Australian officials on Wednesday, May 6. They warned that some members of the group may be arrested upon their arrival. The group, which includes four women and nine children who have been residing in the Roj camp in Syria, is expected to arrive at airports in Sydney and Melbourne on Thursday, as reported by local media. Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke announced that he was informed of the group's travel plans early Wednesday morning. “The government will not help these individuals,” he stated in a press conference. “They made a terrible choice. If they return to Australia and have committed crimes, they will face legal action without exception.” Law enforcement is gathering evidence in Syria to determine if any Australians broke the law, including traveling to forbidden areas and participating in the slave trade. “Some individuals will be detained and charged,” said Australian Federal Police Commissioner Krissy Barrett. She did not specify the timing of the arrests and noted that others in the group will still be under investigation. “Children returning with this group will be offered community integration programs, therapeutic support, and programs to counter violent extremism,” she added.