Australian authorities have uncovered a fabricated plan to attack a Sydney synagogue, orchestrated by an organized crime network aiming to divert police resources.
In January, police discovered a caravan filled with explosives capable of producing a blast wave of up to 40 meters (130 feet), along with the address of a local synagogue. However, the absence of a detonator and the ease of discovery led investigators to suspect foul play.
Krissy Barrett, the Australian Federal Police’s Deputy Commissioner for National Security, explained, “The caravan was never going to cause a mass casualty event but instead was concocted by criminals who wanted to cause fear for personal benefit.”
Dave Hudson, New South Wales Police Deputy Commissioner, noted that the scheme aimed to “cause chaos within the community, causing threat, causing angst, diverting police resources away from their day jobs.”
Authorities have charged 14 individuals aged between 18 and 41 with offenses including arson and drug possession, as part of ongoing operations targeting anti-Semitic activities.
Despite these arrests, the alleged mastermind, believed to be operating from abroad, remains at large.
This revelation comes amid a series of anti-Semitic incidents in Sydney, including vandalism and arson attacks on homes, schools, synagogues, and vehicles.
The Executive Council of Australian Jewry expressed ongoing concern, emphasizing the distress caused within the Jewish community.
Authorities reaffirm their commitment to protecting all communities and condemning the manipulation by organized crime.
