Secrets We Keep Uncovered | Exposing the Bondi gunmen's ISIS links
Mar 2, 2026
Sean Rubinsztein‑Dunlop, an ABC investigative reporter who cultivated an undercover source inside Sydney’s extremist scene. He recounts meeting ‘Marcus’, alleged former ASIO operative, infiltration of a pro‑ISIS centre, warnings about radicalised individuals, ties between local recruiters and international mentors, and the disputed intelligence assessments that intersected with the Bondi Beach terror story.
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Former Undercover Agent Reached Out After Wakeley Attack
- Marcus contacted Sean after the Wakeley stabbing claiming he was a former undercover ASIO operative who had infiltrated pro-ISIS networks in Sydney.
- He communicated cautiously for months, refusing video or location until Sean verified details only an insider could know.
Face to Face Meeting Was Highly Secure And Tense
- Sean met Marcus in London after encrypted months of communication and found him anxious and highly security conscious.
- They moved locations, used a basement meeting room, and turned on a TV to mask conversation like Marcus had done with ASIO handlers.
Undercover Role Involved Posing As Radical Imam
- Marcus said ASIO recruited him in 2016 as an Arabic speaker to pose as a pro-ISIS imam and infiltrate Sydney networks.
- He set up a study centre, taught students, and spent months gaining trust while reporting their activity back to handlers.