Australia declares 'religiously' motivated stabbing in Sydney church terrorist act

Australian police have classified Monday’s stabbing at a Sydney church as a religiously motivated “terrorist act.”

A 16-year-old boy was arrested after attacking a bishop, a priest, and churchgoers during mass at the Assyrian Christ The Good Shepherd Church.

At least four people sustained “non-life-threatening” injuries, including the attacker. The incident, captured on a church livestream, sparked unrest in the Wakeley suburb.

Although authorities have not disclosed the religion of the alleged attacker, investigations suggest religious extremism as the motive.

Graphic videos of the attack circulated on social media, inciting hundreds to clash violently with police outside the church where the attacker was receiving medical attention. Two officers were injured, and ten police cars were destroyed in the confrontation.

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Prime Minister Anthony Albanese convened an emergency meeting, condemning the attack and urging against further violence.

Speaking on Tuesday, New South Wales Police Commissioner Karen Webb revealed that the bishop and priest were undergoing surgery and described their survival as fortunate. The alleged attacker, known to police but not on any terror watch list, acted alone and targeted the livestreamed service to instill fear.

The incident follows a separate stabbing at a Sydney shopping center, fueling community anxiety. State premier Chris Minns appealed for calm and warned against retaliatory violence.

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A strike force has been mobilized to apprehend those involved in the riot, as community leaders deplore the violence and support law enforcement efforts.

The Wakeley neighborhood, home to Sydney’s Assyrian Christian community, has been shaken by the attack. Bishop Emmanuel, a prominent figure in the community, has faced controversy, including suspension from the Assyrian Church and opposition to COVID-19 restrictions.