Two men arrested over anti-Semitic graffiti attacks across Perth

Two men in their 20s have been arrested in relation to anti-Semitic graffiti incidents over the weekend, WA Premier Roger Cook has revealed.

It came after a spate of anti-Semitic incidents across Perth, including a Dalkeith home being spray-painted with a nazi swastika and abusive language.

Mr Cook, who was unable to say which incidents the arrests related to, said the police action was proof those responsible would be found.

“My government condemns these anti-Semitic attacks,” he said.

“The message to the WA community, if you are undertaking these sorts of activities, we will find you.

“The message for you today is that the police will arrest you. The message today is that you will be held to account.

“Western Australia is a peaceful community. It’s one in which everyone lives together in harmony and with a great deal of social cohesion.

“We will not stand by and allow this corrosive behaviour to undermine people’s sense of peace and security in Western Australia.”

Mr Cook said Police Minister Paul Papalia and Police Commissioner Col Blanch would give a further update later on Wednesday.

Labor’s Mt Lawley candidate Frank Paolino had anti-Semitic graffiti on a campaign sign, while a driveway at a home in Langford was also targeted.

“I have been a community volunteer for multicultural organisations for 31 years and this extremist vandalism won’t stop me from standing up for all members of my community including the Jewish community,” Mr Paolino said.

“My community and I refuse to be intimidated by these disgraceful acts.”

It follows a wave of anti-Semitic attacks across the east coast, including cars, homes and businesses owned by Jewish Australians being graffitied and firebombed.

The attacks escalated with the discovery of a caravan in Sydney packed with explosives with anti-Semitic notes inside with locations of significance to NSW’s Jewish community.