Police patrol Melbourne school after violent threat against students

Police have been forced to patrol outside a Melbourne school after a violent knife threat was made against students, with “girls with hijabs” specifically threatened.

Police have patrolled outside an Islamic school in Melbourne’s southeast after students were allegedly threatened with a violent knife attack.

Parents of students at Mt Hira College in Keysborough became aware of the threat on Sunday night, the day before school was due to return after summer break, when the school texted them to warn them.

“We’re writing to inform you we have received a threat message by email that a person will come to the school tomorrow with a knife and attack people, particularly girls with hijabs,” the college said according to 7 News.

A police presence was at the school on Monday to ensure no students were harmed.

The threat specified "girls with hijabs" the school told parents.

“We are working closely with the police who are investigating the threat and we pray it’s nothing more than a hoax.

“Nevertheless we are taking all security precautions to protect our college community and the police will be on patrol throughout the day tomorrow.”

Officers were seen patrolling the streets when students returned on Monday.

Victoria Police confirmed to NCA Newswire they were “aware” that the school had received a threat via email over the weekend.

“Officers have spoken with the school and all staff have been encouraged to remain vigilant. At this time, we believe there is no immediate threat to public safety,” a spokesperson said.

Despite the threat, police believe there is "no immediate threat to public safety".

“Detectives will investigate the origins of the message and the circumstances surrounding the incident. An increased police presence will be seen in the area.”

The school describes itself as an “inclusive, safe, and nurturing Islamic school”.

The threat has worried some parents, who described the threat as “concerning”.

“This is the last thing we need on the first day of school. It’s concerning and takes away from the joy of the kids’ first day back,” one mother told the Herald Sun.

“It’s a great school and it’s really disheartening that someone would make a threat against it.”