A 20-year-old man accused of attempting to incite racial violence at Cronulla beach following the Bondi terrorist attack has been refused bail. Ryder Roy Shaw appeared before Gosford local court on Monday charged with using a carriage service to menace, harass, offend and publicly threaten violence on grounds of race or religion.
The court heard Shaw allegedly posted a 'violent call to action' on TikTok, urging protesters to gather at Cronulla beach days after the Bondi massacre, in which 15 people were killed by two gunmen allegedly inspired by Islamic State ideology. The post called for 'wog' and 'Middle East' bashing, echoing the race-fuelled riots that occurred at the same location 20 years ago.
Senior prosecutor Felicia Lay opposed bail, arguing Shaw posed a serious risk to community safety and that any bail conditions could not mitigate the risk given the current climate. Magistrate Margaret Quinn refused bail, describing Shaw as a 'Muslim hater' and stating that any post inciting violence over race or religion was 'repulsive'.
Defence lawyer Brian Quinn argued Shaw had no prior criminal history and would consent to handing over his social media and phone if granted bail. However, the magistrate deemed the risk to community safety too high, particularly at a time of heightened tensions.
NSW Police and Premier Chris Minns condemned the planned rally, with Minns stating there would be zero tolerance for anyone whipping up racial hatred or violence. Police warned that anyone considering vigilante behaviour could expect a swift and decisive response.
