Adass Israel Synagogue: Terror police hunting for three suspects after Ripponlea synagogue arson attack
A trio wanted over the likely terror attack on a synagogue while people were inside remain on the run.
The Joint Counter Terror Team (JCTT) is now in charge of the investigation into Friday’s arson at the Adass Israel Synagogue at Ripponlea in Melbourne’s southeast.
Authorities declared the fire a likely terror attack on Monday and confirmed investigators were looking for three suspects, but would not give details on who the attackers might be and whether they were known to police.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.Monday’s terror declaration opens up a raft of extra powers for investigators including the ability to stop, search and seize people without a warrant as well as detain and question those they believe have knowledge of, or links to, the attack.
The JCTT is made up of state and federal police and ASIO officers.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also declared a federal taskforce to investigate acts of anti-Semitism in recent months.
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan says her government is looking at introducing laws to protect people at places of worship from protesters, similar to the state’s laws for abortion clinics.
State Opposition Leader John Pesutto wants parliament recalled to pass legislation to protect places of worship.
“It is not acceptable to me ... that we drag our feet in responding to these mounting acts of violence,” Mr Pesutto said on Monday.
Photos from inside Adass Israel provided to AAP show the extent of damage to the synagogue built by Holocaust survivors.
Torahs, books and papers lay charred and waterlogged across the floor, as walls and the insides of the building were collapsed.
The community has vowed to rebuild and are using other facilities in the meantime.
