NSW Police have bolstered Strike Force Pearl, a task force established to combat a recent surge in antisemitic attacks, primarily concentrated in Sydney's eastern suburbs.
NSW Police have doubled the investigative resources dedicated to Strike Force Pearl, a task force established in December to combat a surge in antisemitic attacks, primarily concentrated in Sydney 's eastern suburbs. The additional 40 investigators will bolster the force's ability to effectively probe these incidents.
Commissioner Karen Webb stated that the eastern suburbs, particularly schools, remain the primary focus for the strike force based on the frequency and nature of reported incidents. However, she indicated that the scope may be expanded to encompass Islamophobic incidents if such reports surface. The strike force's initial mandate involved investigating hateful acts like graffiti and arson. Resources from Operation Shelter, a specialized proactive unit responsible for managing protest activity, have been transferred to Strike Force Pearl. Commissioner Webb explained that this shift aims to seamlessly integrate proactive operations with investigations, ensuring that any arrests or intelligence gathered are effectively utilized to identify those responsible. This integrated approach aims to prevent future incidents and hold perpetrators accountable.Premier Chris Minns emphasized the importance of these increased resources in ensuring the safety of New South Wales residents. He condemned all forms of hate-driven violence, ranging from vandalism and graffiti to potential mass casualty events like terrorism. Minns acknowledged that violent acts often stem from hateful words and pledged to review hate speech legislation in the state. He also announced plans to introduce new legislation that would significantly increase penalties for racist attacks in NSW. Minns expressed deep concern over the rise of racism and antisemitism in the state, stating that he never anticipated witnessing such levels of bigotry in Australia in 2025. A recent example of the strike force's work involved the arrest of a 37-year-old man who defaced a wall in Sydney's east with a Nazi symbol and a swastika. The man was apprehended by Strike Force Pearl officers conducting patrols in the Kingsford area. Commissioner Webb clarified that while the man's actions differed from previous spray-painting incidents, the use of a Nazi symbol remains unacceptable and will not be tolerated. The arrest underscores the strike force's commitment to actively pursuing individuals who engage in such hateful acts
ANTISEMITISM NSW POLICE STRIKE FORCE PEARL SYDNEY HATE CRIMES RACISM LEGISLATION
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