Police in Victoria have made three arrests following an alleged racially motivated attack on a Muslim religious leader and his wife on a Melbourne freeway. The incident, which occurred on Saturday evening, has been condemned by community leaders and authorities.
Details of the Alleged Attack
According to Victorian police, the alleged assault took place on the South Gippsland Highway in Melbourne’s south-east at approximately 7.40pm on Saturday. A 47-year-old imam from Noble Park and his wife were reportedly travelling when they were allegedly targeted by three occupants of a small black hatchback.
Officers allege the trio racially abused the couple before hurling objects and driving dangerously to intimidate them. The suspects are then accused of forcing the couple's vehicle into a service station. Police state that the offenders then exited their car, with the imam being punched in the face and his wife threatened.
Arrests and Charges Laid
Members of the public are said to have intervened before the alleged offenders fled the scene. Following an investigation, the trio were arrested in Dandenong South on Sunday.
A 23-year-old man from Cranbourne North and a 22-year-old man from Cranbourne East have both been charged with criminal damage and common law assault. The Cranbourne North man was remanded in custody to appear at Dandenong Magistrates Court on Monday, while the Cranbourne East man was bailed to appear at the same court on 22 May.
An 18-year-old woman from Dandenong South was released pending summons. Police investigations are ongoing.
Community Condemnation and Police Statement
The Australian National Imams Council strongly condemned the incident, labelling it a "cowardly attack." The council confirmed the alleged victim is recovering and emphasised the severe psychological trauma suffered by the couple.
In a firm statement issued on Monday, Victorian police declared: "There is absolutely no place for prejudice-motivated, religious based or hate-based behaviour in our society and such activity will not be tolerated." The statement underscores the official stance against hate crimes in the state.
The case highlights ongoing concerns about religious and racial intolerance, with community leaders stressing that no family should fear attack due to their faith or identity.
