Sydney Church Stabbing: Teenager Charged with Terrorist Act
A 16-year-old Australian teenager has been charged with committing a terrorist act after allegedly stabbing Bishop Mar Mari Emmanuel at a church in Sydney. The police reported that the bishop, who was stabbed at least six times, is currently in stable condition in the hospital.
About the Hearing
The teenager was charged in the Parramatta children’s court on Friday morning after attending a hospital bedside hearing while recovering from surgery. During the attack on Monday night, the alleged perpetrator’s finger was severed. The police announced on Thursday night that the teenager had been charged and denied bail, with the offence carrying a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.
Incident Details
The attack occurred during a live-streamed service at Christ the Good Shepherd Church in Wakeley, Sydney’s south-west. The bishop sustained lacerations to his head, while Father Isaac Royel, aged 39, received cuts and a shoulder injury while trying to intervene.
Legal Proceedings
The police searched the teenager’s electronic devices at his home and conducted interviews at the hospital before pressing charges. Defence lawyer Greg Scragg mentioned engaging a forensic psychologist to assess the alleged attacker for treatment due to a history of mental health issues.
Community Response
Following the incident, thousands gathered at the church demanding justice for the attack. The community response led to clashes with the police, with concerns about retaliatory actions and threats to local mosques.
Call for Peace
Bishop Emmanuel, in a recorded message from the hospital, forgave his attacker and called for peace. Despite the unrest and clashes, he reassured his followers of his improving condition.
Arrest and Aftermath
The teenager was arrested at the scene but had to be protected in the church due to safety concerns from the crowd. The clashes between the police and the crowd resulted in injuries to over 50 officers and damage to around 20 police cars.
