Police have arrested and charged an 18‑year‑old man who was allegedly spotted wearing a Nazi symbol near a mosque in Perth’s south‑eastern suburbs.
Officers conducting proactive patrols around the mosque on Mills Road West in Gosnells at about 8:20 am on Tuesday observed the man wearing a black face covering and a necklace displaying a Nazi symbol. He was arrested and later charged with one count of displaying a Nazi symbol in public and one count of failing to obey police orders.
The suspect, who is from Huntingdale, will face the court in January for the two charges.
Increased patrols after Bondi
Officers were patrolling the area as part of Operation Dalewood, a WA Police initiative launched to increase presence around places of worship in response to the Bondi Beach terror attack and to reinforce a zero‑tolerance approach to antisemitism.
Police Minister Reece Whitby said officers will provide a “saturation” presence around such locations. He added that the operation aims to offer as much support and assistance as possible to New South Wales police and authorities as they grapple with the aftermath of the terror attack.
Whitby also noted that the operation includes both overt and covert police security presence at places of worship, schools and community organisations across Perth.
Western Australian Premier Roger Cook indicated there was no heightened threat in the state following the recent shootings.
Mosque incident
Police are also investigating a separate incident at the Masjid Al‑Rahman Mosque in Gosnells that occurred in October. Authorities said the offender poured non‑flammable motor oil across the main entrance but did not attempt to ignite it.
The State Security Investigation Group, a division of WA Police that handles threats motivated by religion, race or ideology, is leading that investigation.
The ABC makes no suggestion that the two incidents are linked.
Frequently Asked Questions
What charges were laid against the teenager?
He was charged with one count of displaying a Nazi symbol in public and one count of failing to obey police orders.
When is the teenager scheduled to appear in court?
The man from Huntingdale is due to appear before Armadale Magistrates Court in January.
What is Operation Dalewood?
Operation Dalewood is a WA Police initiative created in response to the Bondi Beach terror attack, aimed at increasing police presence around places of worship and reinforcing a zero‑tolerance approach to antisemitism.
How do you think this increased police visibility will affect community confidence in the coming months?