Perth Man Faces New Firearms Charges in Bondi Support Case
In a case that underscores growing concerns about online extremism in Australia, 39-year-old Martin Thomas Glynn from Perth's southern suburbs has appeared in court facing additional firearms-related charges. Glynn, who allegedly expressed support for the perpetrators of the tragic Bondi Beach attack, was arrested in December following a police raid that revealed a troubling array of weapons and ideological materials at his Yangebup home.
Background of the Bondi Attack and Glynn's Alleged Involvement
The Bondi Beach incident, which occurred on December 14 last year, sent shockwaves through the nation. During a Hanukkah event, shooters opened fire, killing 15 people in what authorities quickly classified as a terror attack. The event, meant to celebrate Jewish culture, turned into a scene of unimaginable horror, prompting widespread mourning and a national day of reflection on December 21.
Hours after the attack, Glynn allegedly took to Instagram to voice his support for the shooters. One post reportedly read: "I just want to say that I, Martin Glynn, 100 per cent support the New South Wales shooters." This inflammatory statement caught the attention of law enforcement, leading to his swift arrest as part of Operation Dalewood—a targeted police operation launched in response to the Bondi tragedy.
During the raid on Glynn's Yangebup residence, officers uncovered six rifles, thousands of rounds of ammunition, and flags associated with Hezbollah and Hamas—groups designated as terrorist organizations by the Australian government. Additionally, handwritten notebooks were seized, containing what prosecutors described as strongly antisemitic comments, references to Adolf Hitler, and mentions of the Holocaust. Glynn's mobile phone also yielded images of smoke grenade bombs and open-source information on manufacturing explosives, further escalating the severity of the investigation.
The Raid and Initial Charges
The December raid was a pivotal moment in the case. Western Australia Police, acting on intelligence from Glynn's social media activity, executed a search warrant at his home in Perth's southern suburbs. The findings painted a picture of potential radicalization, with materials suggesting deep-seated ideological biases. Glynn was initially charged with possession of a prohibited weapon, failing to store a firearm in compliant storage, and conduct intended to racially harass.
In an earlier court appearance last month, Glynn, representing himself, defended his posts by claiming they were an attempt to highlight what he perceived as hypocrisy in the Gaza-Israel conflict. He drew parallels between the Bondi death toll and Palestinian casualties, stating he had been "very opinionated" after witnessing the "massacre of Palestinian people for the last two years." This self-defense only amplified concerns about the spread of divisive rhetoric online, especially in the wake of such a high-profile attack.
New Developments in Court
Glynn's latest court appearance on February 3, 2026, via video link from Hakea Prison, introduced two new charges: possessing firearm technology and another count of failing to store a firearm in compliant storage. Magistrate Andrew Matthews read out the charges in Fremantle Magistrates Court, where Glynn, now represented by a Legal Aid lawyer, remained composed.
His lawyer indicated that a bail application would be filed for the next hearing on February 27. This development comes as Glynn has been in custody since his arrest, unable to secure release amid the gravity of the allegations. Prosecutors have emphasized the public safety risks posed by the weapons cache and extremist content, arguing that Glynn's actions could incite further unrest.
Government and Community Response
The Bondi attack has had ripple effects far beyond Sydney, prompting meetings between WA Premier Roger Cook and Jewish community leaders in Perth. Cook condemned the incident as a "cowardly and heinous" act, reaffirming the state's commitment to combating hate and terrorism. These discussions highlighted the need for vigilance against online radicalization, with calls for enhanced monitoring of social media platforms.
Community leaders have expressed relief at the swift police action but voiced fears over rising antisemitism in Australia. The attack, occurring during a period of heightened tensions in the Middle East, has fueled debates on free speech versus hate speech, with experts urging better education on conflict zones to prevent misinformation from breeding extremism.
Broader Implications for Australian Security
This case is part of a larger pattern of investigations into domestic extremism following the Bondi tragedy. Operation Dalewood has led to multiple arrests across the country, focusing on individuals who expressed sympathy for the attackers online. Security analysts note that social media's role in amplifying radical views has become a critical challenge for law enforcement, particularly in a diverse nation like Australia.
Glynn's situation raises questions about mental health, ideological influences, and the accessibility of firearms. While he has not been charged with direct involvement in the attack, the possession of illegal weapons and hateful materials underscores the potential for lone actors to pose real threats. Advocacy groups are pushing for stricter gun laws and digital literacy programs to address these vulnerabilities.
As the February 27 hearing approaches, all eyes will be on whether Glynn secures bail. Regardless of the outcome, this story serves as a stark reminder of the enduring impact of the Bondi attack and the ongoing battle against hate in modern Australia. Authorities continue to urge the public to report suspicious online activity, emphasizing that vigilance is key to preventing future tragedies.
In the meantime, the Jewish community and broader society grapple with healing from the loss. Memorials and support services remain active, fostering unity in the face of division. This evolving case will likely influence policy discussions on extremism for years to come.
