Police vow to arrest far-left, pro-Palestine extremists after arson attack on defence manufacturer
Police have vowed to bring far-left, pro-Palestine extremists before the courts after an attack on a defence facility in Melbourne.
Federal police have revealed far-left, pro-Palestine extremists are suspected to have launched an arson attack on a defence facility in Melbourne which makes parts for the advanced F-35 aircraft.
The AFP has released CCTV images of the suspects breaking into arms manufacturer Lovitt Technologies at 3.55am AEST on Saturday to vandalise the business and set several cars alight.
Authorities allege the extremist group later posted an online video of themselves claiming responsibility for the attack while donning a black hooded jumpers, backpacks and gloves.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.Police claim they “voiced their opposition to the Australian Government” and “outlined a number of grievances in support of Palestine”.
They allege the group targeted the company in the belief it was part of a broader Australian Defence Force supply chain.
“We clearly have some information about these alleged offenders. At any time, we could be knocking on the door of the accused group,’’ AFP Detective Superintendent Anthony Hall said.
“We know this is making some in the group anxious — and it should, because we are determined to bring them before the courts.”
After the attack, it’s alleged the offenders fled on e-bikes south-west along Plenty River. Motorists who were in the area at the time and have dashcam footage are urged to come forward.
The members are also alleged to have publicly advised how to create a device similar to the one suspected of creating a fire that damaged vehicles at the Greensborough business.
Victoria Police Detective Acting Superintendent Anthony Wheatfill said the attack had the potential to put the wider community at significant risk.
“That anyone would use such violent and dangerous methods to express a political or social viewpoint is unacceptable.
“Fire is dangerous and unpredictable and criminal offending of this nature – which has the potential to significantly impact our community and lead to deaths or serious injury – will not be tolerated.”
Engage in a terrorist act and other acts done in preparation for, or planning, terrorist acts carries a jail term of life imprisonment.
