Australian police arrest third suspect in 2024 synagogue arson
June 19 (UPI) -- The Victoria, Australia, Joint Counter Terrorism Team charged a third man with arson in an attack on Melbourne's Adass Israel Synagogue in December 2024.
The unnamed suspect, 20, is from the Airport West area of Melbourne. He was charged with criminal damage by fire, conduct endangering life and theft of a motor vehicle. The arson charge carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison, and the auto theft charge and endangering life both have a maximum of 10 years, a press release from the Australian Federal Police, Victoria Police and the Australian Security Intelligence Organization said.
The man was already in police custody for unrelated charges. His next court appearance is set for Tuesday.
Police allege that he is one of three people who broke into the synagogue and deliberately set it on fire. The other two suspects have already been caught and are in custody.
Giovanni Laulu, 21, of Werribee, was charged in July 2025, and Younes Ali Younes, 20, from Meadow Heights, was arrested in August 2025. All are from the Melbourne area.
Another man from Melton South, 20, was also charged in July 2025 with stealing a communal crime car to be driven to the synagogue.
"There is no understating the fear and genuine sense of unease this crime created in our society," AFP Assistant Commissioner Peter Crozier said in a statement. "We can reveal that we believe some individuals have actively lied to the JCTT, likely in an attempt to hinder our investigation. Let me be very clear. You will not obstruct justice. Now is the time for you to come forward and do the right thing."
Victoria Police Acting Assistant Commissioner Paul O'Halloran said finding those who are involved in anti-Semitic attacks is a priority for Victoria Police.
"We have remained firmly focused on ensuring those who bring harm to our community are put before the court. It doesn't matter what role someone may play, if you are involved in an incident such as this then I can assure you police and our partner agencies will do everything we can to fully investigate and hold you to account for your actions.
"I want to reassure the public again that these investigations remain a priority for Victoria Police and to thank the Jewish community for their assistance and support thus far."
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This story was originally published June 19, 2026 at 3:55 PM.