Man charged over car theft tied to Adass Israel firebombing

Victorian Joint Counter Terrorism Team has charged a man over the theft of a car connected to the Adass Israel Synagogue firebombing in Ripponlea in December 2024.

Early morning worshippers in the synagogue reported to police that they saw masked men throw fuel into the Ripponlea synagogue around 4am on December 6. The fire quickly spread, forcing the few occupants to flee the synagogue through a rear door.

The Joint Counter Terrorism Team (JCTT) released CCTV footage in May of three perpetrators getting out of an alleged stolen blue Volkswagen Golf sedan, with two clearly seen pouring the contents of several jerry cans into the synagogue and setting the liquid alight, torching the synagogue.

The JCTT, which includes Victoria Police, AFP and ASIO, previously stated last year’s firebombing was likely a politically motivated attack. This remains the position of the JCTT, and the investigation remains a terrorism investigation.

The alleged “communal crime car” was then used to drive off towards Melbourne’s western suburbs. The car used in the Adass Israel Synagogue arson attack was also used in other serious crimes in South Yarra and Bundoora.

Victoria Police said the car had cloned license plates. Cloned license plates are where legitimate vehicle registration numbers are copied and used on other vehicles for criminal purposes.

A 20-year-old man was arrested in Williamstown on Wednesday. Police said, “The man has been charged with theft of motor vehicle and failing to comply with an order under section 3LA of the Crimes Act 1914 (Cth) to provide access to applications on his mobile telephone.” He appeared in court on Thursday where he was granted bail to reappear on 3 October.

A search warrant was also executed at his home in Melbourne’s northwest suburb of Melton South.

Police advise that, “The investigation into the Ripponlea synagogue fire continues to be treated as a priority by police, including the involvement of significant resources across all agencies.”

“The JCTT is also regularly engaging with relevant communities in relation to the status of the investigation.”

Investigators on the case are appealing to the community to contact police if they have any information about those involved or know anyone who had access to the vehicle at the time of these offences.

Philip Zajac, President of the Jewish Community Council of Victoria, said, “The investigation into the firebombing itself is ongoing, and we continue to urge anyone with information to contact authorities.

Our thoughts remain with the Adass community as they rebuild with resilience and strength.”

David Southwick MP, Member for Caulfield, told J-Wire: “The Jewish community is hurting, angry and many are scared.  At the time, everyone from the Prime Minister to the Premier talked a big game. Now? Just radio silence and brick walls.”

“The community is worried this could happen again and next time, those inside the building may not be so lucky.  People feel abandoned. This was a deliberate attack on a place of worship. What more does it take for justice to be delivered.”

“I know Victoria Police are doing what they can, but it seems like the criminals are multiple steps ahead using encrypted apps, burner phones and complex tactics to avoid being caught. The Allan Labor government must provide whatever expertise and resources needed to catch these criminals before it’s too late.”

“These gangland criminals must be found and locked up before it’s too late. No more excuses.”

Information may be provided to police by contacting Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or online at the Crime Stoppers Victoria website. A confidential report can also be made to the National Security Hotline on 1800 123 400.

 

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