A shocking act of antisemitic hatred unfolded on a Melbourne street this week, as a group of Jewish teenagers was deliberately pursued by the occupants of a vehicle who shouted Nazi slogans.
The Targeted Attack in St Kilda East
The incident occurred at approximately 9.50pm on Monday at the intersection of Glen Eira Road and Hotham Street in St Kilda East. The boys were waiting to cross when a white utility vehicle drove past them before executing a sudden U-turn. As the teenagers attempted to cross the road, the ute accelerated towards them, coming dangerously close to hitting one of the youths.
According to Chayim Klein, a father of one of the boys and a member of the local Adass community, his son reported that two people inside the vehicle screamed 'Heil Hitler' and performed Nazi salutes. "They were forced to run and hide, while the occupants actively pursued them in the vehicle, searching for them and attempting to drive at them," Mr Klein told the Herald Sun. He described the event as a deliberate and targeted act of intimidation that put young lives in immediate danger.
Police Investigation and Community Shock
Victoria Police confirmed they are investigating a report of antisemitic behaviour and are closing in on suspects. "Fortunately, no-one was injured and the vehicle drove from the scene," a spokesperson stated. "Detectives have since identified two persons of interest in relation to the matter and are currently following up a number of avenues of enquiry."
Authorities also believe the offenders are likely linked to a series of other crimes in the area, including aggravated burglaries and vehicle theft. In a further chilling detail, the perpetrators told the terrified teens they would 'be back in the morning'.
The attack has sent shockwaves through the community. Dr Dvir Abramovich, Chair of the Anti-Defamation Commission, said the teenagers had been "turned into prey". "If Jewish teenagers can be hunted in the open, metres from a synagogue that was firebombed last year, then something in this country has already snapped," he said.
Political Condemnation and Legal Response
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan condemned the incident, stating that antisemitic behaviour has no place in the state. She emphasised that the Nazi salute is banned in Victoria and confirmed police are investigating. "We already have the strongest anti-hate laws in the nation, and my plan is to strengthen them when parliament returns in a couple of weeks' time," Premier Allan declared.
This hate crime occurred just days before a National Day of Mourning for the victims of the Bondi Beach terror attack. The community and authorities are now urging any witnesses or individuals with relevant footage to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
