The Victorian Joint Counter Terrorism Team (JCTT) has charged a man over his alleged role in the arson that severely damaged the Adass Israel Synagogue in December 2024.
The Werribee man, 21, has been charged with the offences of arson, endangering life and theft of a motor vehicle.
It will be alleged the man is one of three individuals who broke into the Ripponlea synagogue and set the fire.
JCTT investigators– with the assistance of state and federal police arms – executed seven search warrants at Point Cook, Werribee,Toorak, Airport West, Hadfield, Weir Views, and Coburg on Wednesday, July 30.
Various items, including electronic devices, were seized and will be forensically examined, police said.
An Australian Federal Police (AFP) member was attacked by an unrestrained dog at the Weir Views home, resulting in a police firearm being discharged.
The dog was subsequently euthanised at a veterinary clinic.
On July 16, JCTT charged another person for allegedly stealing a car, which is alleged to have been used to drive to the synagogue on December 6 ,2024.
Victoria Police Deputy Commissioner Wendy Steendam said the JCTT arrests are a significant breakthrough.
“We now have charged two people as part of this investigation and I expect there will be more to come,” she said.
Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Mike Bush said police would be relentless in pursuing the case and persecuting those involved.
“People deserve to be safe and feel safe, particularly when it comes to their places of worship. This is not negotiable in any way,” Mr Bush said.
Australian Federal Police National Security Deputy Commissioner Krissy Barrett said that time had not lessened the gravity of the situation.
“This crime was despicable as it was dangerous, and it is important to acknowledge that this was not just an arson on a synagogue,” Ms Barrett said.
“The effect of this crime has rippled through a community that continues to be targeted by criminals.
The man was expected to appear in the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, July 31.
Anyone with information relevant to the investigation is urged to contact investigators through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
