A terrorist bomb plot targeting landmarks in Melbourne's CBD on Christmas Day has been foiled by a massive police operation days before it was due to be carried out. Here's what we know so far.
What was the target?
Melbourne Christmas day terror plot foiled
Police have foiled a potential "multi-modal" Christmas day attack potentially using explosives, guns and knives in Federation Square and St. Paul's Cathedral on Christmas Day. Vision courtesy ABC News 24.
Police believe a group of self-radicalised Islamic extremists were planning to carry out an attack on some of Melbourne's most famous landmarks, including Federation Square, St Paul's Cathedral and Flinders Street Station.
What did the plot involve?
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Intelligence gathered by law enforcement suggests that the plotters were preparing to use an improvised explosive device (IED) in the attack, as well as knives and guns.
How long were the alleged plotters being watched?
The group involved had been under surveillance for quite a while, according to police, however in the past couple of weeks they were being monitored heavily as their plans became clear.
How did police stop the attack?
A joint operation involving 400 officers from Victoria Police, Australian Federal Police and ASIO raided properties across Melbourne's north-west on Friday, in Flemington, Meadow Heights, Dallas, Campbellfield and Gladstone Park.
What happened in the raids?
Seven people were arrested, with five men still in custody. Police said four of the men were Australian-born and in their 20s, except for one who was Egyptian-born. Police said some had a Lebanese background. The men are expected to face court on Friday.
Who was arrested?
One of those arrested is Zakaria Dabboussi, 20, an IT worker from Gladstone Park. Abdullah Chaarani, 26, appeared before the Melbourne Magistrates Court charged with a single terror offence. Hamza Abbas, 21, later appeared in court wearing a grey t-shirt, and with a long beard.
Ahmed Mohamed, a 24-year-old from Meadow Heights, was the third to appear in court.
A 20-year-old woman and a 26-year-old man, both from Meadow Heights, were released without charge.
What inspired the plot?
The group don't have any direct connections to overseas terror groups, according to police, but were self-radicalised by Islamic State propaganda.
What does this mean for other Christmas events?
Police believe the threat has been neutralised and that other holiday events, such as the Carols by Candlelight and Boxing Day Test, are not being targeted. Still, they have assured the public that there will be increased security around major events.