Counter-terror police raid homes in Melbourne synagogue firebombing probe
Counter-terror police have raided Melbourne homes in a major breakthrough over the firebombing of the Adass Israel Synagogue at Ripponlea.
Counter-terrorism police have executed raids across Melbourne’s northern suburbs as part of an ongoing investigation into the firebombing of the Adass Israel Synagogue in Ripponlea.
Officers from the Victorian Joint Counter-Terrorism Team swooped on at least three properties early Friday morning, as the months-long probe into the potential terrorist attack intensifies.
“Victoria Police and the Australian Federal Police have executed a number of search warrants in Melbourne’s northern suburbs this morning as part of the Joint Counter Terrorism Team (JCTT) investigation into an arson attack at a Ripponlea synagogue last year,” a Victoria Police spokesperson said.
“At this time there are no further updates and the investigation remains ongoing, with further updates to be provided when appropriate.”
Police have refused to confirm further details, including if any arrests were made.
The investigation, which has gripped the city’s Jewish community, has been a top priority for authorities since the targeted firebombing late last year.
Significant progress has been made in the case since the arrests linked to the fire at Lux Nightclub in November. Police have previously confirmed that the same vehicle used in the nightclub incident was also seen at the scene of the Ripponlea attack — marking a critical development in the investigation.
Convictions relating to the synagogue attack could carry a potential life sentence due to the political or ideological nature of the offence.
Board member of the synagogue Benjamin Klein said police had briefed leaders on the raid on Friday morning.
“They said no arrests have been made but they’re comfortable with how the investigation’s proceeding,” Rabi Klein said.
“I think whilst we are very happy and comfortable that police are working very hard on it, it does shake you.”
The rebuilding of the synagogue is expected to commence in October.
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