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SYDNEY - The nine suspects in Australia's largest alleged terrorist conspiracy arrived at Penrith Local Court in western Sydney today for their committal hearing, amid heavy security.
Flanked by a heavy police escort, the men were taken into the courthouse through the back entry via the Penrith police station.
Armed police stood guard outside the courthouse while vehicles and drains were checked earlier in the day.
The nine suspects -- Mohammed Ali Elomar, Mazen Touma, Abdul Rakib Hasan, Khaled Cheikho, Moustafa Cheikho, Khaled Sharrouf, Mirsad Mulahalilovic, Omar Baladjam and Mohammed Jamal -- were arrested in late 2005 for allegedly conspiring to make explosives for an attack on Sydney's Lucas Heights nuclear reactor.
After legal argument yesterday, evidence is expected to begin today, with the crown case being led by prosecutor Wendy Abrahams, QC.
The hearing -- to determine whether the men should face trial -- is expected to run for up to three months.
- AAP
