Police have not ruled out more counter terrorism arrests today despite backlash and protests from the Muslim community.

More properties are expected to be searched by police, with Australian Federal Police saying they would be digging up backyards looking for hidden cash and firearms.

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AFP acting commissioner Andrew Colvin said the counter terrorism operation was only just beginning.

“In many ways it’s just a new phase,” he told ABC TV on Thursday.

Four people have been formally charged following yesterday’s raids in Queensland and New South Wales, with one man appearing in court yesterday on charges of plotting to kidnap and behead a member of the public.

Two women were issued with court attendance notices and a 24-year-old man was charged with possession of an unauthorised weapon.

More than 200 members of the Muslim community protested against the raids last night in the western Sydney suburb of Lakemba.

The protests highlighted backlash against police brutality and heavy-handedness, along with claims that Muslims were being unfairly targeted as part of the raids.

Appearing on the ABC’s Lateline program last night, Muslim community activist Dr Jamal Rifi said there was a concern that the Muslim community was being vilified.

“There is that fear in the community, I wouldn’t say it’s widespread, but if someone is going to accuse anyone, I reckon the barbaric state is the one that should be accused,” Dr Rifi said.

– with AAP