Melbourne's Jewish community is reeling from a wave of antisemitic vandalism, with police now seeking two suspects in connection with a series of graffiti attacks earlier this year. The attacks, which occurred in July, involved the use of stencils to spray paint hateful messages at eight locations across the city, including restaurants, shops, and a licensed premises. The suspects are believed to have been traveling in a distinctive blue station wagon with horizontal roof racks, and their identities have been partially revealed through CCTV footage and descriptions provided by witnesses.
One suspect is described as a Caucasian man wearing a black bucket hat, black and white balaclava, black and grey checked shirt, black pants, and black shoes. The other is believed to have a solid build, wearing a black baseball cap, black ski mask, black rain jacket, black top, blue denim jeans, black gloves, and black shoes. The same stencil was also used in an incident at Croydon Railway Station in May, suggesting a potential link to the same perpetrator or group.
The police have urged anyone with information to contact CrimeStoppers on 1800 333 000, offering a chance to play a crucial role in bringing these perpetrators to justice and sending a strong message against hate crimes. The community is on high alert, and the investigation is ongoing, with authorities determined to uncover the full extent of the attacks and ensure the safety and security of Melbourne's Jewish population.