Victoria Police investigate Synagogue graffiti
Fifth vandalism incident in five months at Toorak shule
Melbourne Crime Investigation Unit detectives are investigating five separate graffiti attacks on the Melbourne Hebrew Congregation in South Yarra since March.
The same suspect is believed to be responsible for all the incidents.
The heritage-listed synagogue on Toorak Road has been repeatedly targeted by an unknown male who arrives alone on a black e-scooter and spray-paints offensive phrases on the exterior walls.
Victoria Police confirmed incidents occurred on Tuesday 11 March, Saturday 21 June, Sunday 22 June, Tuesday 22 July, and Wednesday 30 July.
All attacks were carried out late at night in in the early hours of the morning.
Police have released security footage of a male they believe may assist with enquiries.
The suspect is described as Caucasian in appearance, of medium build and bald, typically wearing a long black jacket and black and white face covering.
During the July incidents, he wore a “scream” mask that completely covered his face.
The graffiti has included phrases such as “Free Palestine” and “Iran is da bomb”, with more recent attacks featuring “war crimes” and a Magen David.
After the first two incidents in June, Melbourne Hebrew Congregation Rabbi Shlomo Nathanson told the Herald Sun, “This is an offence to the Jewish community, but it’s also a call to conscience for all Australians to say: ‘Not on my watch. Not in my Australia.'”
Despite CCTV footage being provided to authorities, no arrests have been made in connection with any of the incidents.
Victoria Police say, “There is absolutely no place at all in our society for hate-based behaviour.”
Anyone with information about the incidents, CCTV or dashcam footage is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report at Crimestoppers.