Man accused of pledging allegiance to IS makes bail bid

Mohamed Musse Bakit, a 65-year-old man, appeared in Melbourne Magistrates Court on Thursday, facing five charges related to alleged membership in a terrorist organisation and transmission of violent extremist material. The allegations were revealed during his application for bail. According to Detective Leading Senior Constable Katharine Dillon, Bakit allegedly sent thousands of messages promoting the Islamic State's violent actions, including beheadings, public executions, and propaganda, in a WhatsApp group chat.

He pledged allegiance to the group on December 15, 2018. Police also found videos of the beheading of American Nicholas Berg on his devices. Bakit, who first came to authorities' attention in November 2020, was allowed to leave the country but was re-examined when he returned to Australia in June 2021. Federal police raided his Carlton home in July 2024, seizing electronic storage devices.

The prosecution opposed bail, citing the severity of the alleged crimes, while Bakit's barrister argued for his release due to his lack of prior convictions and need for assistance following a stroke in 2023. Bakit's wife also relies on him, as she cannot speak English or work in Australia. The next bail decision is expected on October 8.