Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Mike Bush visits firebombed Adass Israel Synagogue in Ripponlea
Victoria’s new Chief Commissioner Mike Bush has met with leaders at the Adass Israel Synagogue, eight months after it was gutted in a firebombing attack.
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New Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Mike Bush has visited the Ripponlea synagogue ravaged by a firebombing eight months ago.
Mr Bush on Friday morning met with leaders at the Adass Israel Synagogue to talk about the atrocity of December 6 last year in which masked arsonists set it alight with fuel, forcing worshippers to run for their lives.
He spoke to Addas president Michael Spigleman and treasurer Benjamin Klein.
Mr Bush’s visit came a day after investigators announced a breakthrough in the long-running inquiry into the synagogue torching.
The Victorian Joint Counter Terrorism Team arrested and charged a 20-year-old Williamstown man over the theft of a car connected to the incident.
The car, VW Golf allegedly used, had been stolen from Croydon.
Police believe it was also driven to the Lux Nightclub inferno of November last year and an arson and shooting at Bundoora the night of the synagogue blaze.
“This is one of many conversations the Chief Commissioner has had with the Jewish community since he started in his position three weeks ago,” a Victoria Police spokeswoman said.
Mr Klein said the community “deeply appreciated” the visit from Mr Bush and Assistant Commissioner Chris Gilbert.
“Their presence offered meaningful support and encouragement, which was warmly received by all,” Mr Klein said.
“Mr Bush affirmed his commitment to building on the important work already undertaken by Victoria Police in the investigation.
“He demonstrated a clear understanding of the need for strong leadership to ensure safer streets and to stand firmly against hate across the Melbourne community.”
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