Victoria Police have made a second arrest in connection with a deeply disturbing alleged antisemitic attack that forced a group of Jewish schoolboys to run for their lives in Melbourne's inner southeast. The frightening ordeal has sent shockwaves through the local community and prompted a strong response from law enforcement and community leaders alike.
Alleged Attack Targets Orthodox Jewish Students
The incident unfolded shortly before 10:00 PM on Monday evening in the suburb of St Kilda East. According to police reports, five boys were walking home from the Adass Israel School along Glen Eira Road when the alleged attack occurred.
Closed-circuit television footage captured the moment a stolen utility vehicle performed an abrupt U-turn on the road and allegedly accelerated directly toward the group of students. The boys, who are all Orthodox Jews, were forced to sprint to safety to avoid being struck by the vehicle.
Vile Slogans and Explicit Threats Alleged
During the alleged pursuit, the perpetrators reportedly subjected the schoolboys to vile Nazi slogans and explicit threats of violence. One father of a victim stated that the group was actively stalked and warned they would be physically injured during the terrifying encounter.
The Anti-Defamation Commission chair, Dr Dvir Abramovich, condemned the alleged behaviour in strong terms, stating that anyone who threatens or attempts to harm the Jewish community will face serious consequences. Community leaders have expressed concern that such incidents make Jewish families feel less secure in their own neighbourhoods.
Second Teenager Taken Into Custody
Overnight, detectives from the Moorabbin Crime Investigation Unit arrested a 16-year-old boy from the Knox area in Melton in relation to the alleged antisemitic incident. The teenager was interviewed by police not only about Monday night's events but also concerning an aggravated burglary in Ormond on January 13 and a motor vehicle theft in Caulfield on January 10.
The 16-year-old has been formally charged with aggravated burglary, theft of a motor vehicle, and multiple driving offences. He has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to appear before a children's court at a later date.
First Arrest Made Earlier This Week
This latest arrest follows the apprehension of a 15-year-old boy from Carrum on Thursday morning. While police believe this teenager was also involved in Monday night's alleged attack on the Jewish schoolboys, he has not yet been charged specifically in relation to that incident.
The 15-year-old has been charged with motor vehicle theft concerning other matters and was granted bail. He is expected to face the Melbourne Children's Court at a future date.
Investigation Continues as Community Reels
Detectives have confirmed that their investigation into the alleged antisemitic attack remains active and ongoing. Police are still searching for additional suspects believed to be involved in the frightening incident that left the Jewish schoolboys traumatised.
The alleged behaviour has left many local families shaken and concerned about their safety. Community representatives have emphasised the need for strong legal responses to hate crimes and antisemitic violence in Melbourne.
As the legal process moves forward, authorities continue to urge anyone with information about the incident to come forward to assist with their ongoing investigations into this serious matter.
