Investigations into the anti-Semitic vandalism of a second synagogue in Sydney will now be overseen by New South Wales (NSW) counter-terrorism police.
In an effort to address the recent escalation of anti-Semitic attacks on the Jewish community, the NSW government has deployed the state’s anti-terrorism task force.
The Newtown Synagogue in Sydney’s inner-west was painted with swastika symbols on Jan. 11, following a similar incident in the southern suburbs just one day earlier.
The duo also tried to set a fire with some liquid, but the fire extinguished itself after a few minutes.
Police Commissioner Karen Webb said the suspects’ arson attempt was alarming.
“An accelerant of some type has been used, and that is an escalation in the level of criminality as far as I’m concerned,” she said.
“[The investigation is] a concerted effort to make sure that all of these matters are given the consideration, thoroughness to exploit every avenue.”
Webb’s remarks were echoed by NSW Premier Chris Minns.
“Police and the government remain very concerned that an accelerant may have been used in Newtown on Saturday morning,” he said.
“There is never any justification for this kind of racist, anti-Semitic targeted attacks on members of our community.”
As the police stepped up the manhunt, Webb called on the public to help identify the suspects.
“I appeal to anyone out there who knows who has perpetrated these disgusting offences to come forward and tell police who they are,” she said.
Meanwhile, the NSW Jewish Board of Deputies said the past week had been challenging for the local Jewish community.
“This was a failed act of terrorism which risked the safety and property of local residents peacefully sleeping in their homes near the synagogue.”
At the same time, the Board welcomed extra funding from the NSW government to enhance the security of the Jewish community.
