'Ginger jihadi' IS fighter believed dead

Abdullah Elmir, known as the Ginger Jihadi for his long red hair, is believed to have been killed in Syria.

Abdullah Elmir (Fairfax Media) Source: Fairfax

A Sydney teenager who starred in an Islamic State propaganda video is believed to have been killed in Syria.

Security agencies suspect Abdullah Elmir, a former Bankstown student known as the Ginger Jihadi for his long red hair, died in the city of Raqqa eight to 10 weeks ago.

The 18-year-old is believed to have died in a bombing raid, The Australian reports.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade says it is unable to confirm the death yet, due to the situation is Syria.

"Australians should not engage in fighting for ISIL," a spokesperson said.

"It is illegal and those prosecuted face severe penalties."