Aust-based terror suspect caught in KL

An online news site reports a Malaysian man suspected of running an Islamic State terror cell in Australia has been arrested.

Demonstrators chant pro-Islamic State group slogans in Iraq

A Malaysian man suspected of running an IS terror cell in Australia has reportedly been arrested. (AAP)

A Malaysian man suspected of running an Islamic State terror cell in Australia has been arrested in Kuala Lumpur, a Malaysian news site reports.

The Star Online on Friday reported the 29-year-old was grabbed by Malaysian counter terrorism officials upon touching down at Kuala Lumpur International airport.

He was reportedly deported from Australia on Wednesday after authorities became aware of his terror activities.

The factory supervisor is suspected of recruiting Malaysian militants to be sent via Australia to fight for IS in Syria, the Star Online says.

He reportedly set up base in Australia to avoid the watchful eye of Malaysian counter terrorism special branch Bukit Aman, which has cracked down on would-be terrorists in recent months.

"They were using Australia as a transit point. So far, at least five Malaysian fighters were believed to have used the designated route," a source told The Star.

"The cell also offered advice to fellow fighters ... to evade detection and connect them with contacts in Syria."

The terror cell reportedly also contained an Australian-based Malaysian couple who on January 7 were also been deported and arrested by authorities on return to Malaysia.

The Australian Federal Police are aware of the article, but would not comment on the arrest.


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Source: AAP


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