Islamic State-linked women and children flee Syrian camp bound for Australia

A group of 13 women linked to Islamic State and their children have reportedly left a Syrian detention camp and are attempting to return to Australia in a second bid for freedom.

The group is smaller than the 34 whose failed effort to come home in February caused such a political furore. This time, four families, 13 women and children have left northeastern Syria’s Al-Raj camp.

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Syrian government officials are escorting them on an expected 10-hour road trip to Damascus. From there, these families of former Islamic State fighters hope to fly back to Australia.

“They might stay in Damascus or around Damascus for a while. It could be around 72 hours. Then they will be deported,” YPJ Women Protection Unit Lana Hussein said.

Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles said the Australian government is not repatriating the group.

A group of 13 women linked to Islamic State and their children have reportedly left a Syrian detention camp and are attempting to return to Australia in a second bid for freedom. Credit: 7NEWS

Shadow Home Affairs Minister Jonathan Duniam said: “Given the individuals, their choice to leave, the association they held, the fact that they were in a declared terrorist area, and now want to come back, is something we as Australians should be very worried about.”

A government spokesperson has told 7NEWS that Australian security agencies are prepared for their potential return.

The spokesperson confirmed that anyone who has committed crimes will face prosecution upon their return to Australia.