Sydney ‘on edge’ as church stabbing named ‘terror attack’
NSW Premier Chris Minns deemed last night’s brutal Sydney church stabbing an act of “terrorism”, with NSW police deeming it to be motivated by "religious extremism".
Video transcript
- New South Wales premier Chris Minns deemed last night's brutal Sydney church stabbing an act of terrorism with New South Wales police believing it to be motivated by religious extremism. On Monday evening, shocking footage emerged of religious leader Bishop Mar Mari Emmanuel allegedly being attacked at the Christ the Good Shepherd Church in Wakeley while delivering his sermon. Police arrested a 15-year-old boy following the violent scenes which were live streamed. Authorities stated none of the injuries sustained by any of the four victims were life threatening.
After the attack, a furious mob of around 2,000 people swarmed near the church with riots breaking out and police struggling to maintain order. A number of police officers were injured after being hurt during the unrest. Federal MP for Fowler, Dai Le, told ABC News Breakfast people are understandably on edge in the city, stating last night heightened people's nervousness.
New South Wales premier Chris Minns said in a statement that community leaders are supporting a unanimous condemnation of violence in any form and called for calm community. He said we're calling on everyone to act with kindness and respect for each other. Now is the time to show that we are strong and united as a New South Wales community.