New Zealand PM Approves Repatriation Of ISIS-linked Citizens

Ilustrasi ISIS. (Wikimedia Commons / aharan_kotogo)

JAKARTA - New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said on Monday she had agreed to the Turkish government's request to accept the return of a New Zealand woman and her two young children, who are accused of links to ISIS.

All three are currently in Turkish immigration custody, having been arrested earlier this year while trying to enter Turkey from Syria. Turkish authorities have asked New Zealand to repatriate the family.

"New Zealand did not take this step lightly. We have considered our international responsibilities, as well as the details of this particular case, including the fact that children were involved", Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said in a statement after a cabinet meeting in Wellington, Monday, July 26.

It is known that the woman has New Zealand and Australian citizenship. His family moved to Australia when he was six years old. She grew up there before leaving for Syria in 2014 on an Australian passport.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern. (Wikimedia Commons/Foundations World Economic Forum)

However, the Australian Government revoked her citizenship and refused to overturn the decision, despite calls from New Zealand.

Earlier this year, Ardern said Australia's decision was wrong and the country had disclaimed its responsibility by "unilaterally" canceling the woman's citizenship.

Australia has given assurances it will consult with New Zealand if similar cases arise in the future, Ardern said.

Details about arrangements or timing for bringing the family home will not be published for security reasons.

Separately, Turkish authorities said the woman, 26, was a DAESH (Islamic State) terrorist wanted on a 'blue notice'.

Interpol blue notices are issued to collect additional information about a person's identity, location, or activity in connection with a crime.

"As previously stated, any New Zealander who may be suspected of being linked to a terrorist group must be investigated under New Zealand law. However, that will be a matter for the Police", Ardern said.