Australia: Authorities responding to reported arson attack on Adass Israel Synagogue in Melbourne, as of the afternoon of Dec. 6

Police are investigating an alleged arson attack targeting the Adass Israel Synagogue in Ripponlea, Melbourne, as of the afternoon of Dec. 6. Officials have not confirmed any arrests but state that two masked individuals spread an accelerant all over the compound before setting it ablaze. There are no reports of casualties. The synagogue sustained significant damage.

Heightened security will likely continue around the incident site in the coming hours as police investigations continue. Associated localized transport and business disruptions are possible. Officials could deploy additional personnel to other synagogues and places of worship in Melbourne.