It is unclear whether the group of men arrested posed any danger to the public, and unclear why they were headed for Bondi.
A witness said it was “frightening to see so many police with huge weapons in the area” especially after what had happened in Bondi.
“This is not something you see every day but it’s even more chilling right now. When will it end.”
Police and a tow truck pictured at the intersection of George and Campbell Sts in Liverpool following the arrests. Photo / Monique Harmer, NewsWire
In a chaotic chain of events, a police Land Cruiser was used to ram a white Hyundai carrying the men.
Tactical officers wearing camouflage and protective gear and carrying rifles were then seen jumping out of a vehicle, detaining the men on a sidewalk.
In a statement on Thursday night, NSW Police said the operation had concluded. “Tactical Operations police responded to information received that a violent act was possibly being planned,” a spokesperson said.
Heavily armed police with the detained men in Liverpool in Sydney’s southwest.
“Police subsequently intercepted two cars as part of the investigation.
“As investigations continue, seven men are assisting police with their inquiries.
“At this point in time, police have not identified any connection to the current police investigation of the Bondi terror attack.”
Heavily armed police with the detained men.
The incident took place on George St, near a primary school and a medical centre which was reportedly sent into lockdown with surrounding businesses.
Police have not confirmed the reason for the operation, however, NewsWire understands the tactical police were acting on intelligence from Asio.
Australian Federal Police (AFP) Commissioner Krissy Barrett said on Thursday morning that more raids were to come after the Bondi terror attack.
The heavily damaged Hyudai with shattered windows could be seen getting towed away following the operation. Photo / Monique Harmer, NewsWire
“In the coming days, the New South Wales Joint Counter Terrorism Team will execute further search warrants to support our investigation. There is a lot of material to be examined, and the AFP continues to work with both domestic and international partners to build a more complete picture of the movements and who the alleged offenders had contact with, both in Australia and offshore.”
NSW Police have said there is no threat to the community.
Sign up to Herald Premium Editor’s Picks, delivered straight to your inbox every Friday. Editor-in-Chief Murray Kirkness picks the week’s best features, interviews and investigations. Sign up for Herald Premium here.