A Werribee man has been arrested in relation to a fire that destroyed a Melbourne synagogue.
The 21-year old will be interviewed in relation to arson, conduct endangering life, and motor vehicle theft offences.
He was arrested by the Victorian Joint Counter Terrorism Team (JCTT), who allege he was one of three people who broke into the Ripponlea synagogue on December 6th, 2024 and started the fire.
Police said further arrests and charges are expected soon.
JCTT investigators executed seven search warrants on Wednesday, seizing various items for forensic analysis from addresses in Point Cook, Toorak, Airport West, Hadfield, Werribee, Weir Views, and Coburg.
The JCTT includes Victoria Police, Australian Federal Police, and the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation.
Victoria Police Deputy Commissioner Wendy Steendam said teh arrest is a demonstration of ongoing efforts to hold those responsible to account.
“We now have charged two people as part of this investigation and I expect there will be more to come,” she said.
“Again, I appeal for those people to contact police. If you have any details at all about those involved and their motivation, then we want to hear from you. Even the smallest detail or piece of information could prove crucial.”
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
