Australian authorities have officially labeled Monday’s stabbing at a Sydney church as a religiously motivated “terrorist act”, sparking nationwide concern and condemnation.
The attack unfolded during a mass at the Assyrian Christ The Good Shepherd Church, where a 16-year-old assailant targeted a bishop, a priest, and congregants. While at least four individuals sustained “non-life-threatening” injuries, including the attacker himself, the incident quickly escalated tensions in the Wakeley suburb.
Footage of the violence circulated rapidly online, prompting hundreds to gather outside the church premises in a show of solidarity. However, the gathering spiraled into chaos as clashes erupted between demonstrators and law enforcement, resulting in injuries to two officers and extensive damage to police vehicles.
In response to the escalating situation, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese convened an emergency meeting of national security agencies, emphasizing the nation’s commitment to peace and denouncing violent extremism. He urged against vigilantism and highlighted concerns about the role of social media in exacerbating tensions.
Addressing the media, New South Wales (NSW) Police Commissioner Karen Webb provided updates on the injured victims, noting that the bishop and priest were undergoing surgery and were fortunate to have survived. While investigations are ongoing, authorities believe the attack was driven by religious extremism, as the suspect allegedly made religiously charged remarks before carrying out the assault.
Despite being known to law enforcement, the teenager was not previously flagged as a terror threat. Police clarified that he acted alone and targeted the church service intentionally, aiming to intimidate both attendees and online viewers.
The incident has intensified anxieties in NSW, particularly following a recent unrelated stabbing incident in a Sydney shopping center that claimed seven lives. State premier Chris Minns urged calm and unity, echoing sentiments expressed by religious and community leaders who condemned the violence.
A dedicated police task force has been mobilized to investigate the unrest, with Commissioner Webb vowing to hold perpetrators accountable. Meanwhile, the NSW Ambulance service decried the crowd’s behavior as “outrageous”, emphasizing the need for community support for emergency responders.
The Wakeley neighborhood, home to Sydney’s Assyrian community, has been deeply affected by the attack. Bishop Emmanuel, a respected leader within the community, has garnered widespread praise for his compassion and leadership amid the crisis.
The teenage boy arrested over last night’s stabbing attack inside a Sydney church was on a good behaviour bond after facing court for a knife crime just three months ago. https://t.co/Q0hdXGwIuV
— ABC News (@abcnews) April 16, 2024