In a shocking incident that has sent shockwaves through the community, a Muslim religious leader and his wife were allegedly forced off the road and assaulted in what police have described as a racially motivated attack.
The incident occurred on Saturday evening as Imam Ismet Purdic and his wife were travelling along the South Gippsland Highway in Melbourne’s south-east. According to police, three occupants of a small black hatchback hurled racial abuse at the couple and then drove dangerously to force them off the road.
The Bosnia-Herzegovina Islamic Society, of which Imam Purdic is the leader, said the couple had “suffered profound trauma” as a result of the incident. In a statement, the society expressed gratitude that the couple’s children were not present, noting the severe psychological impact on the victims.
Imam Purdic, who has served the community for over 12 years as a religious leader, educator and interfaith advocate, took to Facebook to thank people for their support and reassure that he and his wife are doing fine.
The Australian National Imams Council has strongly condemned the “cowardly attack”, stating that the psychological trauma suffered by the victims is severe. The council emphasised that no family in Australia should fear being attacked for their faith, appearance or identity.
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan has spoken with Imam Purdic and his wife, reiterating that there is no place for Islamophobia or hate in the state. She pledged her unwavering support for the Muslim community, particularly Muslim women, to live freely and move around the community safely and with dignity.
Three suspects, a 23-year-old Cranbourne North man, a 22-year-old Cranbourne East man, and an 18-year-old Dandenong South woman, have been arrested in connection with the incident. The two men have been charged with criminal damage and common law assault, with the Cranbourne North man remanded in custody to appear in court on Monday.
Victorian police have strongly condemned the “prejudice-motivated, religious-based or hate-based behaviour” and stated that such activity will not be tolerated in the state.
