In short:
A 21-year-old Werribee man has been arrested over the 2024 arson attack on the Adass Israel Synagogue in Ripponlea. The politically motivated fire triggered joint anti-terror raids across Melbourne, including Werribee, Point Cook and Weir Views.
Synagogue attack treated as political crime
A 21-year-old Werribee man has been arrested over the 2024 arson attack that severely damaged the Adass Israel Synagogue in Ripponlea.
The arrest, carried out by the Victorian Joint Counter Terrorism Team (JCTT), is part of a broader investigation into what police have confirmed is being treated as a politically motivated crime.
The man is expected to be interviewed for multiple serious offences, including arson, conduct endangering life, and theft of a motor vehicle. The maximum penalties range from 10 to 15 years’ imprisonment. Police allege he is one of three people involved in the attack on the synagogue on 6 December, 2024.
Seven simultaneous search warrants were executed today, 30 July, across suburbs including Point Cook, Toorak, Airport West, Hadfield, Werribee, Weir Views and Coburg. Officers seized multiple items including electronic devices for forensic examination.
During the Weir Views search, an AFP officer was seriously injured after being attacked by an unrestrained dog. A police firearm was discharged, and the dog was later euthanised. The injured officer remains in hospital.
This marks the second arrest in the investigation. A person was previously charged on 16 July for allegedly stealing a vehicle used in the attack.
AFP Deputy Commissioner National Security Krissy Barrett described the attack as “despicable” and said the JCTT has been working “with relentless determination” to hold those responsible to account.
“This crime was despicable as it was dangerous,” Barrett said. “It is important to acknowledge that this was not just an arson on a synagogue… we will not let this go unpunished in Australia.”
Victoria Police Deputy Commissioner Wendy Steendam said today’s arrest was a significant milestone, urging the public to come forward with any information that could help progress the case.
“There are people out there with information… Even the smallest detail or piece of information could prove crucial,” Steendam said.
Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Mike Bush added that the crime had caused significant fear in the community.
“People deserve to be safe and feel safe, particularly when it comes to their places of worship. This is not negotiable in any way,” Bush said.
The investigation remains ongoing, and further arrests are expected.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au or call 1800 333 000. Reports can also be made to the National Security Hotline on 1800 123 400.
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