The Victoria Police is investigating the three incidents involving graffiti damage to places of worship in the last two weeks at Heaths Court, Mill Park; Danks Road, Albert Park; and Boundary Road, Carrum Downs.

On each occasion, the offender/s have spray-painted what appear to be prejudice-motivated slogans on external boundary fencing and gates.  These incidents may be connected, the Victoria Police said in a statement.

Damage at Mill Park occurred in the early hours of Thursday on 12 January, Albert Park overnight on 22-23 January, and Carrum Downs overnight between 15-16 January.

“Victoria Police takes all prejudice-motivated crime seriously, including criminal damage in the form of graffiti. These incidents are being investigated, and we encourage anyone with information about them to contact police, Timothy Day, Superintendent, Priority and Safer Communities Division, said.

Prejudice-motivated crime can undermine community harmony, reduce people’s perception of safety and make people feel isolated, he added.

The High Commission of India has also strongly condemned the incidents of vandalisation in the three Hindu temples.

In a statement, the Commission said, “The frequency on impunity with which the vandals appear to be operating are alarming, as are the graffiti which include glorification of anti-Indian terrorist. These incidents are clear attempts to sow hatred and division among peaceful multi-faith and multi-cultural Indian-Australian community.

“Signals the pro Khalistan elements are stepping up their activities in Australia, actively aided and abetted by members of proscribed terrorist organisations such as Sikhs for justice (SFJ) and other inimical agencies from outside Australia, have been evident for some time,” the statement said.

The High Commission has shared its concerns with the Australian government and is hopeful that the perpetrators will be brought to justice with suitable action taken to prevent further attempts.

“In addition, our concerns about the so-called referendum in Melbourne and Sydney, Australia, announced by the proscribed organisation, the Sikhs for Justice have been conveyed to the Australian Government. It has been highlighted to  Australian Government to ensure the safety and security of members of the Indian community and their properties in Australia, and to not allow the use of Australian territory for activities detrimental to the territorial integrity, security and national interests of India,” the statement added.

Meanwhile, the Victorian Police has urged anyone who witnessed the incident, has information, or has CCTV or dashcam footage to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or to submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.

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