The gates of an inner-Brisbane synagogue were knocked down on Friday night after a car allegedly rammed them.
Police said a Toyota Hilux utility was driven towards the Brisbane Synagogue on Margaret Street shortly after 7pm.
The car allegedly knocked down the front gates before being driven northwards along the city street.
A short time later, the vehicle was intercepted by officers, who took the driver into custody. No one was injured, and police said the driver was arrested without incident.
The 32-year-old Sunnybank man was charged with multiple offences, including committing serious vilification or a hate crime, driving dangerously, and possessing dangerous drugs.
Officers suspected the driver acted alone, and said there was no ongoing threat to the community.
On Saturday, Premier David Crisafulli said he had spoken to police and leaders of Queensland’s Jewish community.
“This is another signal as to why we have put strong laws before parliament to protect all people where they worship,” he said.
“We are going through the process, and I fully intend to have them passed during the next sitting of parliament.”
The driver was expected to appear before court on Saturday.
Police said the investigation was continuing, and urged anyone with relevant CCTV or dashcam footage of the incident to come forward.
Start the day with a summary of the day’s most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter.
From our partners
Read the full article here
