Australia probes online threat to PM Modi ahead of his Melbourne visit

An online comment threatening Prime Minister Narendra Modi ahead of his Melbourne visit has triggered a police probe in Australia.

In Short

• The threat appeared under a Facebook post for the Melbourne event
• Investigators have traced the IP address, per Australian media report
• Security remains tight ahead of PM's visit, several agencies coordinating

The Australian Federal Police is investigating an online death threat targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi just days before his scheduled visit to Melbourne on July 9, according to Australian media reports. Investigators have identified an IP address linked to the social media post, the reports said.

The threat surfaced beneath a Facebook post promoting the "Melbourne Meets Modi" community event, which is scheduled to take place at Melbourne's Marvel Stadium on July 9 during the Prime Minister's visit to Australia, as per a report by The Australia Today.

The comment was posted by an account using the name Abu Mustafa (translated) and read: "the roof tops of the stadium better close during the event or he will be coming to Australia for his death".

The Australia Today reported that the matter was referred to the Australian Federal Police on the same day the comment appeared online.

Quoting sources familiar with the investigation, the publication said officers have identified the IP address associated with the post and are examining the circumstances surrounding the message. Authorities are also assessing whether any criminal offences have been committed.

The Australian Federal Police has not yet publicly commented on the investigation.

Australian media reports noted that threats directed at visiting heads of government are treated with the utmost seriousness by Australian law enforcement agencies. Security arrangements for high-profile international visits typically involve multiple agencies, including the Australian Federal Police, state police and specialist protective security units.

The alleged threat comes days before PM Modi's official visit to Australia, where he is expected to take part in bilateral engagements as well as community events, including the Melbourne gathering.

- Ends