A 32-year-old man has been charged with serious vilification or hate crime after allegedly ramming the gates of a synagogue in Brisbane with his utility vehicle. Police confirmed the incident, which occurred on Friday evening, is not being treated as a terrorist act.
The man, from Sunnybank, is accused of driving a Toyota Hilux into the gates of the synagogue on Margaret Street in Brisbane's CBD shortly after 7pm. He fled the scene but was apprehended shortly afterwards. He faces charges including wilful damage, dangerous operation of a vehicle, and drug possession.
Queensland Police Acting Superintendent Michael Hogan stated that while the attack was targeted at the synagogue, it was not considered a terrorist incident. “Specialist counter-terrorism officers have been involved in the investigation from the very start, and I can confirm this is not considered a terrorist incident,” he said, adding that the man's mental health and intoxication were being considered as contributing factors.
No injuries were reported. CCTV footage released by police shows a person inside the synagogue grounds jumping back as the vehicle struck the gates. Police believe the attacker did not intend to enter the building. Libby Burke, vice-president of the Queensland Jewish Board of Deputies, said the community was “deeply distressed” and that “all Jews in Queensland should be able to attend synagogue and live our lives free from fear”.
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli described the alleged attack as concerning and assured the public that strong laws were being introduced to protect places of worship. The proposed legislation, which would grant the attorney general power to outlaw certain phrases, has faced criticism from Islamic and ethnic councils for lack of consultation.
