Adass Israel synagogue firebomb arrest: 21-year-old Werribee man arrested, allegedly started Ripponlea fire

West Australian

3 days ago

A man has been arrested over the firebombing attack of a Jewish synagogue in Melbourne, with police alleging the 21-year-old lit the fire.
On Wednesday, Victoria Police and the AFP confirmed a the Werribee man was in custody as was being interviewed, adding they believe he is one of three people responsible for the devastating blaze at the Adass Israel Synagogue in Ripponlea in Melbourne's southeast.
The firebombing attack shocked the nation and Jewish Australians.
'The Victorian Joint Counter Terrorism Team (JCTT) has arrested a man over his alleged role in the arson that severely damaged the Adass Israel Synagogue in December 2024,' the AFP and Victoria Police joint statement said.
'The Werribee man, 21, will be interviewed in relation to the offences of arson under section 197 (1) (6) of the Crimes Act 1958 (Vic), conduct endangering life arson under section 22 of the Crimes Act 1958 (Vic)and theft of motor vehicle under section 74 of the Crimes Act 1958 (Vic).'
Another man, a 20-year-old from Williamstown, was arrested earlier in July, with police alleging he stole a vehicle to use as a getaway car after the attack.
For arson, the individual could face 15 years in prison, while motor vehicle theft and endangering life carry a 10 year maximum sentence.
Victoria Police and the AFP said: 'Further arrests and charges are expected soon.'
The arrest comes after raids were carried out on Monday in numerous Melbourne Suburbs.
'JCTT investigators, with assistance from Victoria Police Special Operations Group and AFP Tactical Response, executed seven search warrants at Point Cook, Toorak, Airport West, Hadfield, Werribee, Weir Views, and Coburg today (Wednesday, 30 July, 2025),' the joint statement said.
'Various items, including electronic devices, were seized and will be forensically examined.'
Victoria Police Deputy Commissioner Wendy Steendam said today's arrest is a significant step forward in the investigation, and is testament to the commitment across all agencies to hold those involved in this incident to account.
'Since the fire occurred on 6 December last year, the investigation has been one of the highest priorities for Victoria Police and the JCTT,' she said.
'Today's arrest is a demonstration of our ongoing efforts to hold those involved to account. We now have charged two people as part of this investigation and I expect there will be more to come.
'What has also been clear to us throughout this investigation is that assistance from the public is absolutely crucial and without that assistance, the investigation would not be where it is today.
'We know there are people out there with information that will progress this investigation – whether that is people we have already spoken to or others who are yet to come forward.
'Again, I appeal for those people to contact police. If you have any details at all about those involved and their motivation, then we want to hear from you. Even the smallest detail or piece of information could prove crucial.
'I want to reassure people that Victoria Police will continue to work with our law enforcement partners including the AFP and ASIO to do everything we can to bring this investigation to a successful conclusion as soon as possible.'
The state's new Chief Commissioner, Mike Bush said the force would continue to be 'relentless' in going after those responsible and enforcing the full extent of the law.
'Victoria Police has seen first-hand the impact this incident has had in the Victorian community – the fear and distress a crime like this can cause,' he said on Wednesday.
'People deserve to be safe and feel safe, particularly when it comes to their places of worship. This is not negotiable in any way. We remain committed to identifying all those who seek to cause this kind of fear and harm, and ensuring they are brought to justice.'
The investigation, which has been ongoing since December, has been something the AFP say has been worked 'tirelessly' on.
'The gravity of this crime has not been lessened by time, and I can confirm the JCTT continues to investigate the arson attack as a politically-motivated crime,' AFP Deputy Commissioner National Security Krissy Barrett said.
'We will not let this go unpunished in Australia. And that's why we have responded with relentless determination to pursue those responsible and hold them to account.
'This crime was despicable as it was dangerous, and it is important to acknowledge that this was not just an arson on a synagogue.
'The effect of this crime has rippled through a community that continues to be targeted by criminals. We will not stand for this, and I want to reassure the public that this is not just a priority investigation for the JCTT, but also for the AFP.
'I want to thank the Jewish community across Australia, and in particular, the Adass Israel Synagogue congregation, for their stoicism, patience, and the support they have shown the JCTT.'
A press conference will be held later on Wednesday.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.