Australian Man, Detained In Lebanon For Suspected Terrorist Links, Has History Of Overseas Arrest

An Australian man was detained by military intelligence in Lebanon. According to Lebanese officials, Talaat Hawatt is suspected to be linked to a terrorist organisation.

Hawatt, identified in the local media as “TH,” was detained at his residence located near the town of Dahr al Ain. According to a Lebanese official, the Australian man is suspected to be linked to a terrorist group similar to Islamic State. However, according to the official, the investigation is still in its early stages.

Hawatt’s uncle Rodney, who is in Sydney, confirmed the detention of his nephew. He, on the other hand, said that it was a mistake by Lebanese authorities as his nephew was not involved with any extremist groups. According to Rodney, Hawatt was in Lebanon for his marriage. He said that the authorities wrongly assumed about his motives behind staying in the northern part of the country.

Hawatt’s uncle, nevertheless, revealed that his nephew was involved in an alleged handgun shootout in Thailand. He said that Hawatt had been arrested during that time. Local media reported in June 2010 about the incident which allegedly took place at the Sabai Empress Hotel in North Pattaya.

Pattaya Police Investigator Captain Jamrat Thongjinda was notified of the shooting incident at around 3:00 a.m. on Sunday, June 6. Investigators, who rushed to the scene, watched CCTV footage to locate Hawatt who was “clearly intoxicated.” Hawatt was 21 years old during that time. He apparently went to Thailand to visit his uncle.

According to reports, Hawatt still had the Mouser 6.35mm gun and 4 live rounds when he was arrested. He was charged with unlicensed gun possession and shooting a firearm in public without authorisation.

Hawatt’s cousin, Rodney’s daughter, said that he was not arrested but only questioned by Lebanese authorities. She also said that it was a normal protocol to interrogate Australian visitors as the terrorism environment had been heightened. According to her, Hawatt is the "the last person on earth" to have terrorist links.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade confirmed Hawatt’s detention on Tuesday evening. Officials are reportedly looking for further information on the case. Contact the writer: s.mukhopadhyay@IBTimes.com.au