Police raids in synagogue firebombing probe

Melbourne’s Adass Israel community has expressed gratitude for the apparent progress in the investigation into the Adass Israel Synagogue firebombing, as counter-terrorism police executed raids across the city’s northern suburbs on Friday morning.

Chayim Klein, a member of Adass, told the AJN: “The community is very grateful that it seems the investigation is progressing and progressing at a bit of a pace at the moment. We’re very grateful to the police and the various departments pursuing this and the work they’re putting into it, and we’re looking forward to seeing some arrests.”

“This is not something we’ve experienced before, we can only put our faith and trust in the police Of course we would like to see a quicker and earlier result, but we understand they’ve got to pursue the right avenues,” he said.

Officers from the Victorian Joint Counter-Terrorism Team swooped on at least three properties early Friday morning, as the months-long probe into the potential terrorist attack intensifies.

“Victoria Police and the Australian Federal Police have executed a number of search warrants in Melbourne’s northern suburbs this morning as part of the Joint Counter Terrorism Team (JCTT) investigation into an arson attack at a Ripponlea synagogue last year,” a Victoria Police spokesperson said.

Klein praised the communication between police and community leaders.

“The communication has been absolutely excellent, and it’s important because our community is living on edge, and there is anxiety, and we’re happy the Police are sharing information with us.”

Police have refused to confirm further details, including if any arrests were made.

“At this time there are no further updates and the investigation remains ongoing, with further updates to be provided when appropriate,” the spokesperson said.

The investigation has been a top priority for authorities since the targeted firebombing late last year.

Significant progress has been made in the case since the arrests linked to the fire at Lux Nightclub in November.

Police have previously confirmed that the same vehicle used in the nightclub incident was also seen at the scene of the Ripponlea attack.