Sydney church stabbing suspect released by police due to good behavior

The stabbing at Christ the Good Shepherd Church in Sydney, Australia, has left the congregation and community in shock after bishop Mar Mari Emmanuel and a priest were injured during a live-streamed sermon on Monday.

The 16-year-old suspect, who was reportedly on bail for another knife crime, allegedly carried out the attack with a religious motive, according to police. The teenager, known to police but not on a terror watch list, had previously faced court for a knife crime just three months ago.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the violence, stating that “there is no place for violence in our community.” The congregation, who witnessed the attack during the service, managed to overpower the assailant in a chilling livestream.

Following the incident, a crowd of hundreds seeking revenge gathered outside the church, injuring police officers and preventing the teen suspect from being taken into custody. The bishop and priest, who are in stable condition, asked for prayers for the perpetrator as well.

Acting assistant police commissioner Andrew Holland commended the congregation for subduing the teen before calling police. He also noted that the community’s response to the church stabbing was heightened due to a recent knife attack in a Sydney shopping center.

As Australians grapple with the shocking events, police have urged the community to remain calm and rational. The bishop, known for his controversial views on various issues, has been thrust into the national spotlight once again following this harrowing incident.