Queensland PhD Student Denied Bail Over Alleged AI-Driven Terror Plot
A 24-year-old Queensland PhD candidate has been refused bail in the Brisbane Magistrates Court after being accused of planning a terrorist act involving a firebomb attack on an Australia Day event. The court heard that Sepehr Saryazdi allegedly intended to promote a new phase of civilisation powered by artificial intelligence.
Alleged Plot to Overthrow Government with Cybernetics
Sepehr Saryazdi, 24, has been charged with the preparation or planning of a terrorist act. According to court proceedings, he allegedly plotted to throw a Molotov cocktail at a crowd during Australia Day celebrations on the Gold Coast. The prosecution argued that his motive was to overthrow the current government and replace it with a cybernetics alternative, where society would be guided by AI and data analysis.
Crown prosecutor Ellie McDonald opposed bail, presenting evidence from a Facebook chat where Saryazdi made extremely concerning statements. In these messages, he allegedly wrote, I'll be leading the Gold Coast riots on January 26, and advised others to stockpile vodka bottles in preparation. He also reportedly commented that his actions were purely logical given the trajectory of this nation and recommended learning to shoot guns at ranges.
Court Hears Details of Alleged Preparations
Court documents revealed that between 4 and 9 January, Saryazdi allegedly purchased bottles of alcohol, wrapping paper, and a blanket in preparation for the attack. He told police he viewed the government as turning tyrannical and had drafted a document titled Australia's future cybernetics government the next phase of civilization.
According to his online profiles, Saryazdi holds a Master of Mathematical Sciences from the University of Sydney and is a PhD candidate with the CSIRO data and digital specialist arm and the Australian Centre for Robotics. His Legal Aid solicitor, Hellen Shilton, told the court that he intended to make national news and draw attention to his disenchantment with the government, but never meant to hurt anyone.
Bail Refused Due to Strength of Prosecution Case
Magistrate Penelope Hay denied bail, citing the apparent strength of the prosecution case and Saryazdi's alleged serious link to violent offending. She noted that his bail argument contradicted admissions he made to police about intending to throw a Molotov cocktail in a public place and overthrow the government.
Shilton described Saryazdi as having a very isolated lifestyle, losing contact with his parents after moving to Brisbane, and becoming influenced by new associates and protest videos. She said he became emotionally overwhelmed and made silly choices, but had no history of participating in protests. Saryazdi has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to face court again on 20 February.
