A 26-year-old woman will face the ACT Magistrates Court today, Tuesday 8 December, charged with arranging and paying over the dark web for the murder of two people in Canberra, who both remain unharmed.

In October, ACT Policing received a report from an international journalist that a person had made an online payment and shared details about how to target the two people. Police will allege the woman had agreed to pay $20,000 for the murder.

Detectives executed a search warrant in Fadden yesterday and seized computer equipment for the investigation.

The woman has been charged with two counts of attempt murder and will face court today.

Acting Sergeant Beth McMullen said police believe the woman was motivated by financial gain.

“ACT Policing acted quickly to ensure there was no threat to the safety of the victims in this matter,” Acting Sergeant Beth McMullen said.

“This was a complex investigation due to the report originating overseas, and being able to track and verify the dark web payment. ACT Policing liaised with international police authorities to seek further evidence to lead to yesterday’s search warrant and arrest.

“The victims also cooperated with police, and we don’t believe there is an ongoing threat to their safety.”

Anyone with information that could assist police is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or via the Crime Stoppers ACT website. Please quote reference 6658661. Information can be provided anonymously.

Updates to this story will be issued following a police media call this morning.

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