Two weeks ago, AFP Deputy Commissioner of National Security Krissy Barrett stated to a federal parliamentary committee that the caravan threat was deemed fake soon after it was discovered. Despite doubts about the terrorism intelligence, all agencies involved agreed to maintain the investigation within the Joint Counter-Terrorism Team (JCTT). The taskforce was noted as successful in mitigating threats and conducting operations effectively. However, tension and distrust between the AFP and NSW Police surfaced during the investigation, with suspicions of leaks within both organizations.
Following a story published by The Daily Telegraph about the caravan, suspicions of leaks arose, with the AFP suspecting NSW Police of leaking details of the probe. Conversely, NSW Police suspected the AFP of leaking information to ABC Victoria. The leak had significant consequences for officers involved in the JCTT, prompting authorities to take precautionary measures to prevent further leaks. Politicians and commentators amplified the terror narrative, labeling it a potential mass casualty event, while both police forces discreetly instructed journalists to be skeptical about the plot.
The AFP insisted on a deed of confidentiality for senior investigators from NSW Police in an attempt to stem further leaks and address the lack of trust between agencies. The leaks, which are now under investigation, led to challenges in the investigation and required a shift in approach. It wasn’t until later in February that the AFP discredited the terrorism source and confirmed the caravan plot was a hoax, after contentious new laws targeting protests and hate speech were passed in NSW parliament.
Amidst the aftermath of the caravan hoax, tensions between the AFP and NSW Police continued to be a point of concern. Senior sources within the agencies highlighted a lack of communication and sharing of information, citing power dynamics as a barrier to collaboration. The NSW parliamentary inquiry, led by Chair Rod Roberts, emphasized the need for a harmonious relationship between the agencies to ensure public protection. The inquiry aims to examine the processes and decisions surrounding the caravan investigation and the subsequent passage of new hate laws.
Inquiry member Sue Higginson, a Greens member, raised concerns about the potential impact of the hoax on decision-making, questioning whether the new hate laws were enacted based on false information. The inquiry seeks to address the breakdown in communication and trust between the AFP and NSW Police, urging for transparency and collaboration to prevent future breakdowns in security protocols. The AFP has been invited to provide evidence at the inquiry, as efforts are made to restore trust and cooperation between the law enforcement agencies.
