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The self-styled sheik was shunned by Australia’s Muslim community who disputed his claims of being a Sheik, according to community leader Dr Jamal Rifi

He had gained media attention in the past for a “hate mail” campaign, protesting the presence of Australian troops in Afghanistan by sending abusive letters to the loved ones of dead Australian servicemen.

Late last year he was charged with being an accessory to the murder of his ex-wife and mother of two.

More recently he was charged with a raft of offences in relation to indecent and sexual assault while operating as a self-proclaimed “spiritual healer” in Sydney’s west more than a decade ago.

He was on bail at the time of the siege and due to appear in court over indecent and sexual assault charges in February 2015.

Earlier this month Monis announced via his website he used to be a Rafidi, one who rejects legitimate Islamic authority and leadership, but “now I am a Muslim”.