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A car belonging to a Rabbi, adorned with a “Happy Hanukkah” sign, was reportedly targeted in a firebomb attack in the early hours of December 25. The incident took place in the Rabbi’s driveway on Balaclava Road, St Kilda East, at approximately 2:50 a.m.
Fortunately, the vehicle was unoccupied at the time of the fire. Nevertheless, as a safety measure, a woman and three children were evacuated from the nearby home.
This morning, around 9 a.m., detectives, including those from the Fugitive Squad, apprehended a 47-year-old man on Victoria Street in Richmond. The individual is currently in custody and is set to be questioned by investigators.
The arrest follows nearly two weeks after authorities publicly sought information regarding a man they were interested in speaking with concerning the case.
The arrest comes almost two weeks after police revealed details about a man they wished to speak to in relation to their investigation.
Detectives believe the suspected arson attack was targeted, but said there was no broader threat to the Jewish community.
“We won’t fully understand the motives of this arsonist until we get them into custody,” Southern Metro Region Assistant Commissioner Chris Gilbert said.