Arson at Ryvchin former home confirmed as deliberate strike
Police have today released CCTV footage as investigations continue into the targeted attack at a Dover Heights home, which officers have confirmed was a deliberate and specific act aimed at former resident Alex Ryvchin, co-chief executive of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry.
At about 3.45am on Friday, 17 January, officers from the Eastern Suburbs Police Area Command were called to Military Road after reports that antisemitic graffiti had been sprayed on two vehicles and houses before the vehicles were set alight.
The investigation under Strike Force Pearl has already led to multiple arrests. Two men, aged 37 and 33, have been charged with being accessories before the fact, as well as participating in a criminal group contributing to criminal activity. They were refused bail and remain in custody, due to reappear at Downing Centre Local Court in April. Two other men have also been charged over their alleged roles and remain before the courts.
NSW Police have now released CCTV showing a dark-coloured hatchback and images of two men of medium build, both wearing dark hooded jumpers and pants, who are believed to be able to assist with enquiries. The vehicle is thought to have travelled to and from Dover Heights via New South Head Road.
The Dover Heights attack has been linked to community concerns about a broader rise in antisemitic crimes in Australia. Federal authorities recently confirmed that Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps directed two antisemitic attacks in 2024, one in Sydney and one in Melbourne, sparking the expulsion of Iran’s ambassador and moves to designate the IRGC as a terrorist organisation.
Although police have not drawn a direct line between the Dover Heights arson and Iran’s involvement, investigators have made clear that the attack was not random. It was deliberate, specific and aimed at intimidating one of the country’s most prominent Jewish leaders.
Police are appealing for anyone with information, including dashcam footage, to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
