A man has been formally charged by police following an alleged assault that authorities say was religiously motivated in the southwestern Sydney suburb of Bankstown.
Altercation Over Religious Flyers
According to official police statements, the incident unfolded on Saturday morning along South Terrace in Bankstown. A 51-year-old man, accompanied by several other individuals, was reportedly distributing religious flyers in the area.
Police allege that the 51-year-old became embroiled in a verbal argument with another man who was walking past the location. The dispute is said to have centred around the content of the religious materials being handed out.
Assault During Argument
During the heated exchange, the 51-year-old man was allegedly physically assaulted by the passerby. The two men were not previously acquainted with one another, according to investigators.
Fortunately, the victim did not sustain injuries requiring medical attention following the alleged attack.
Arrest and Charges Laid
Shortly after midday on the same day, a 40-year-old man approached police officers who were on patrol at Bankstown Railway Station. He was subsequently placed under arrest and transported to Bankstown Police Station for questioning.
Following the investigation, the 40-year-old was charged with two separate offences: common assault and assault occasioning actual bodily harm.
Court Appearance Scheduled
The accused has been granted conditional bail and is required to appear before Bankstown Local Court on February 26 to answer the charges.
This case highlights ongoing concerns about community tensions and the importance of respectful dialogue around religious matters in diverse urban areas like southwestern Sydney.
