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Teachers concerned about privatisation of public education
Private companies are unduly influencing public education policy, says Maurie Mulheron from the NSW Teachers Federation. Vision courtesy Ten Eyewitness News.
At least four properties have been raided and there have been multiple arrests. Vision: Seven News
The operations are part of an ongoing investigation.
Fairfax Media understands the raids relate to a terrorist cell and a bomb plot to bring down an aircraft. The raids were not planned but instead were a rapid response to information about the plot received by police.
Joint counter terror and Australian Federal Police operation in Cleveland Street on Saturday. Photo: Channel 9 News
Four men have been taken into custody and the searches at the properties are expected to go late into the night.
"These searches and the broader investigation remain ongoing, and further information will be made available at the appropriate time," the AFP said in a statement.
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"Members of the public are urged to follow any instructions they receive from police at or in the vicinity of search locations."
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The bomb squad is at the scene of the Surry Hills raid on Cleveland Street, which remains closed in both directions between Elizabeth and Baptist streets.
Police conduct a search in Surry Hills. Photo: Channel 9 News
Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull said in a statement he had been "closely briefed" about the operation, which involves the AFP, ASIO and the NSW Police.
"These operations are designed to disrupt and prevent plans to undertake terrorist attacks in Australia," Mr Turnbull said.
"I have been kept closely briefed on the progress of the operations by the heads of our relevant security agencies.
"However, as the operations are ongoing, it is inappropriate to provide further detail at this stage."
Mr Turnbull said his number one priority is the safety and security of all Australians.
"The public should be reassured that our security and intelligence agencies are working tirelessly to keep us safe."