Syria’s Raqqa First Travel Ban under New Australia Law

Local Editor

Australia Thursday nominated the Syrian city of Raqqa as the first place to be hit with a travel ban under sweeping new counter-terrorism measures aimed at blocking extremists going overseas to fight.

Canberra outlined plans to block citizens travelling to terror hotspots in October amid concern about the flow of foreign fighters joining militant groups in the Middle East such as the "ISIL", with 70 citizens believed to have already made the journey.

Under new laws, anyone who heads to nominated areas will face up to 10 years in jail.
"Under the provisions of our foreign fighters legislation, I have today declared al-Raqqa province an area where a listed terrorist organization is engaging in hostile activity," Foreign Minister Julie Bishop told parliament.

"This now makes it an offence under Australian law to enter or remain in the province of al-Raqqa without a legitimate reason. Anyone who enters or remains faces a penalty of up to 10 years' imprisonment."

Bishop said she had so far cancelled 75 passports and refused to issue 10 passports to prevent people travelling to conflict zones.

Prime Minister Tony Abbott previously said an estimated 100 Australians were also supporting extremists within Australia with recruitment and funding, while 20 people who fought with terrorist groups in the Middle East had returned.

Canberra in September raised its terror threat level and carried out extensive raids in Sydney and Brisbane. In addition, Australia's intelligence agencies have been given enhanced powers.

There has been growing disquiet from governments around the world about the threat posed by thousands of foreign fighters who have joined "ISIL" and who could launch attacks in the West.

Source: News Agencies, Edited by website team