New anti-terror police force announced to counter lone-wolf attacks

The police force in the Australian state of New South Wales (NSW) announced on Wednesday the creation of a new anti-terror unit targeting potential lone-wolf attackers.

The task force aims to track down individuals at risk of radicalization or becoming extremists, who may not have been previously monitored.

Known as the Fixated Persons Investigation Unit, the taskforce will consist of 17 detectives and support staff, including mental health professionals.

According to the Australian government's National Terrorism Threat Advisory System, the threat of a terrorist attack in Australia is "probable," with the most likely form of terrorism being an attack by a single individual.

Police Commissioner Mick Fuller said the introduction of the taskforce is a step forward for the state police.

"People so driven by religious, political, ideological or mental health issues that they threaten others is an emerging crime issue for law enforcement across the globe," Fuller said.

"It is about adding another layer of protection for the community and in many cases, protecting individuals from themselves."

Fuller encourages parents who think their child is at risk of radicalization to contact the unit before it's too late.

The taskforce will begin operations on May 1. Endit