Queensland PhD Student Allegedly Conspired to Firebomb Australia Day Celebration, Advocated for AI-Driven Society, Court Informed

A recent case has unfolded involving a Queensland PhD candidate, Sepehr Saryazdi, who stands accused of plotting to launch a violent attack during Australia Day festivities. The court proceedings revealed shocking allegations that he intended to employ a Molotov cocktail against a gathering to further a supposed terrorist agenda aimed at overthrowing the current government in favor of a radical “cybernetic” regime.

The 24-year-old was alleged to have meticulously planned an attack coinciding with Monday’s celebrations, with the objective of ushering in a futuristic phase of civilization driven by artificial intelligence. This troubling information was presented in a Brisbane magistrate’s court on Thursday.

Saryazdi reportedly targeted a popular Gold Coast event, claiming in social media posts that he would spearhead “riots” in the area known for its tourist attractions.

On Thursday, following his arrest on charges related to the preparation or planning of a terrorist act, Saryazdi faced the magistrates in Brisbane.

Documents submitted in court revealed that he allegedly purchased a variety of items, including alcohol bottles and decorative supplies, between January 4 and January 9, ostensibly as part of his preparations for the attack.

Crown prosecutor Ellie McDonald voiced significant concerns about Saryazdi’s intentions, citing “extremely alarming” comments he made in a private Facebook chat. McDonald recounted a message where Saryazdi asserted, “I’ll be leading the Gold Coast riots on January 26,” adding that he urged companions in Melbourne to stockpile vodka bottles ahead of the event.

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During the proceedings, it was revealed that Saryazdi had shared the expectation that he would be killed during the Gold Coast assault unless he was subdued by the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO). He characterized his motives as “purely logical,” alleging that they aligned with the perceived trajectory of the nation.

He further encouraged others to learn firearms skills at shooting ranges “while you can,” according to court testimonies.

Saryazdi reportedly conveyed to law enforcement officials his belief that the government was becoming “tyrannical.” He expressed a desire to replace the existing regime with a structure based on “cybernetics” wherein society would be governed by artificial intelligence and data-driven decision-making.

Additionally, he was found to possess a document entitled “Australia’s future cybernetics government: the next phase of civilization,” which underscores the depth of his convictions.

Saryazdi holds a master’s degree in mathematical sciences from the University of Sydney, and his online profiles indicate that he is a PhD candidate affiliated with both the CSIRO’s Data and Digital specialist arm and the Australian Centre for Robotics.

According to his legal representative, Hellen Shilton, Saryazdi aimed to attract national attention to his grievances with the government by creating a significant incident.

Shilton noted that Saryazdi led an isolated lifestyle since moving to Brisbane and had severed ties with his family, which may have contributed to his radicalization. She mentioned that Saryazdi had become influenced by new social circles and had spent time watching protest-related videos online.

“It overwhelmed him emotionally, leading him to feel compelled to act due to his perception of the world’s trajectory,” Shilton informed the court. She emphasized that it had never been his intention to cause harm to anyone.

Shilton added that when Saryazdi purchased the materials for the alleged attack, he began to grasp the reality of his actions, which she described as misguided choices regarding his cause.

“He has no prior experience in protests; he is evidently confused,” she explained.

During the bail proceedings, it became clear that Saryazdi’s requests clashed with his own statements made to police, which further complicated his defense. Magistrate Penelope Hay pointedly remarked, “This is disputable when considering your admissions.”

Citing the serious nature of the accusations and the strength of the prosecution’s case, Hay denied Saryazdi bail, resulting in his remand in custody. He is set to reappear in court on February 20 for further proceedings.