A terror-related incident shook the peaceful suburb of Wakeley in Sydney, Australia, as a religious leader was attacked during a sermon on Monday evening. The New South Wales Police Force confirmed the incident and urged the public to come forward with any information related to extremist activity.
The attack, which took place at Christ the Good Shepherd church, where an Assyrian Orthodox congregation worships, was captured on video and showed a man violently interrupting the religious leader as he addressed his congregation. The 53-year-old leader, identified as Bishop Mar Mari Emmanuel, suffered lacerations to his head, while a 39-year-old man who tried to intervene also sustained injuries.
A 16-year-old suspect was arrested at the scene and hospitalized for injuries sustained during the alleged attack. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the violence, emphasizing that there is no place for extremism in the community.
Both injured men were treated by paramedics at the scene and later taken to the hospital, where they are in stable condition. NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb declared the incident as terror-related, prompting a joint investigation by multiple law enforcement agencies.
The church released a statement condemning the violence and asking for privacy during Bishop Emmanuel’s recovery. They emphasized the importance of unity and compassion in the Australian community, denouncing such senseless acts of violence.
As the investigation unfolds, authorities are working diligently to ensure the safety and security of all residents in the wake of this disturbing incident.