16-4-2024 (SYDNEY) A shocking knife attack during a service at an Assyrian church in Sydney has been deemed a terrorist act, driven by suspected religious extremism, Australian police confirmed on Tuesday (Apr 16).
The incident, which occurred in the western Sydney suburb of Wakeley on Monday, left at least four individuals injured, including Bishop Mar Mari Emmanuel of the Assyrian Christ The Good Shepherd Church. The service was being live-streamed at the time.
The aftermath of the attack saw confrontations erupt outside the church between law enforcement and an enraged crowd of the bishop’s followers, demanding the perpetrator be handed over to them.
On the scene, a male teenager was apprehended by police on Monday. Concerned for his safety amidst the gathering crowd, authorities detained him at the church.
New South Wales state Police Commissioner Karen Webb, speaking at a press conference, stated, “We believe there are elements that are satisfied in terms of religious motivated extremism.” She further declared the incident as a terrorist act following a thorough review of evidence.
Preliminary investigations suggest a level of premeditation, as the assailant travelled a considerable distance from his residence armed with a knife. However, Webb emphasized that, at this stage, authorities believe the attacker acted alone.
Emergency responders tended to approximately 30 individuals involved in the altercation outside the church, with seven requiring hospitalization for injuries sustained. Several police officers were also hospitalized, and 20 police vehicles incurred damage during the clashes, according to Webb.
This incident marks the second significant stabbing attack in Sydney within three days, following a deadly knife attack at a beachside mall in the Bondi area that claimed six lives on Saturday.
Bishop Emmanuel, renowned for his globally streamed sermons, was addressing the congregation during the evening service when the assailant lunged at him with a knife, as captured in video footage.
The bishop gained prominence for his outspoken views, particularly during the pandemic, where he criticized COVID-19 lockdowns as “mass slavery,” as reported by the media.
In response to the escalating tensions, New South Wales state Premier Chris Minns urged the public not to resort to vigilante justice.
“You will be met by the full force of the law if there’s any attempt for tit-for-tat violence in Sydney over the coming days,” Minns warned reporters.
