Racially Motivated Attack on Imam in Melbourne Sparks Outrage

On January 10, 2026, Imam Ismet Purdic, a 47-year-old leader of the Bosnia-Herzegovina Islamic Society in Noble Park, and his wife were allegedly attacked in a racially motivated incident while driving along the South Gippsland Highway in Dandenong South, Melbourne. The couple was reportedly forced off the road by three occupants of a black hatchback, who hurled racial slurs and objects at their vehicle. After blocking the couple's car and forcing them into a service station, the attackers exited their vehicle, leading to a physical assault on Purdic and threats against his wife.

The Age (Australia)

Following the incident, police arrested three individuals: Brendan Nicholls, a 23-year-old from Cranbourne North; a 22-year-old man from Cranbourne East; and an 18-year-old woman from Dandenong South. Nicholls and his co-accused face charges of common law assault and criminal damage. Nicholls was remanded in custody due to erratic behavior linked to substance withdrawal, while the other man was released on bail. The woman was released pending summons.

Racially motivated attack on Muslim religious leader

The Australian National Imams Council condemned the attack, labeling it a "cowardly act" and highlighting the severe psychological trauma inflicted on the victims. The council emphasized that no individual in Australia should fear violence due to their faith or identity. Premier Jacinta Allan described the incident as a "terrible" example of Islamophobia, pledging support for the Muslim community's right to live free from hate. Multicultural Affairs Minister Ingrid Stitt echoed these sentiments, asserting that such violence has no place in Victoria.

The Age (Australia)

Despite the official condemnations, criticism arose regarding the government's response to rising Islamophobia. The Greens party criticized Premier Allan for not taking stronger action against the increasing number of attacks on Muslims, suggesting that the government has not adequately addressed the issue.

The Age (Australia)

Imam Purdic expressed his shock and fear following the attack, stating, "I was attacked without any provocation." He highlighted the need for collective action to combat such incidents, urging society to choose a world free from hate. Purdic also noted the profound trauma experienced by his family, particularly relieved that their children were not present during the attack.

The Age (Australia)

This incident has reignited discussions about the prevalence of Islamophobia in Australia, particularly following the Bondi massacre, which has heightened fears within the Muslim community. The Australian National Imams Council warned that political rhetoric and irresponsible media commentary are exacerbating this violence, calling for stronger national action against Islamophobia and far-right extremism.

The Age (Australia)

• “The psychological trauma suffered by the victims is severe. No family in Australia should fear being attacked simply for their faith, appearance, or identity.” — Australian National Imams Council

The Guardian

• “I want to say very clearly to the Muslim community, but particularly to Muslim women, that I will fight and support your right every single day to live freely in this state, free from hate, and also fight for your right to move around our community safely and with dignity,” — Premier Jacinta Allan

The Age (Australia)

• “There is absolutely no place for prejudice-motivated, religious-based or hate-based behaviour in our society, and such activity will not be tolerated,” — Victoria Police

Racially motivated attack on Muslim religious leader

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by minority communities in Australia and the urgent need for societal and governmental action to combat hate and promote inclusivity.

The Age (Australia)