Man, 20, arrested and charged over theft of vehicle used in arson attack on synagogue in Melbourne
The JCTT which is comprised of Victoria Police, the Australian Federal Police and the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation maintains the position that the attack on the synagogue, which occurred on December 6, was likely a politically-motivated attack.
A 20-year-old man was arrested at Williamstown on Wednesday, before a search warrant was executed at a home in Melton South were items were seized by investigators.
The man was 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.
It is alleged that he stole the blue 2020-model VW Golf sedan at Melton on November 29 before it was used in the alleged arson attack the following week.
The Golf was also used in other offences including the Lux nightclub arson at South Yarra in November 2024, and an arson and shooting in Bundoora on the same night of the synagogue arson.
"The nightclub fire and shooting are being investigated by Victoria Police and are not considered politically-motivated attacks," a police statement read.
"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."
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