Queensland shooting sparking ‘false flag’ conspiracy theories, experts warn

Some conspiracies posted online echo the paranoia of the shooters Gareth and Nathaniel Train, with some presenting them as victims who ‘knew too much’. Photograph: Jason O'brien/AAP

Experts say chilling videos posted by the couple at the centre of the deadly Queensland shooting have sparked conspiracy theories about the tragedy being a “cover-up” or “false flag” event.

Conspiracists have spent countless hours on encrypted apps and online forums for more than a week, attempting to present an alternative reality of the shooting that left two officers and a neighbour dead.