An Islamic community leader, Imam Ismet Purdic, and his wife were allegedly assaulted and subjected to abuse on the South Gippsland Highway near Dandenong South, Melbourne, on a Saturday night. The incident, which reportedly began with a road altercation, escalated at a nearby service station. Three individuals have since been arrested and charged in connection with the events.
Incident Details
The alleged incident occurred around 7:40 PM on a Saturday. Imam Ismet Purdic, 47, and his wife were reportedly forced off the South Gippsland Highway by occupants of a small black hatchback, who also allegedly drove dangerously to intimidate them. The hatchback then reportedly blocked the couple's vehicle, directing them into a nearby service station.
At the service station, the occupants of the hatchback allegedly exited their vehicle. Reports indicate that the couple was subjected to anti-Muslim and racial abuse, objects were thrown, and damage was caused to their car. Imam Purdic was allegedly punched in the face, and his wife was reportedly threatened. Imam Purdic suggested the targeting occurred after the perpetrators observed his wife's hijab. He sought medical treatment following the incident.
Intervention and Arrests
Members of the public intervened during the alleged assault, after which the individuals in the hatchback reportedly returned to their vehicle and fled the scene. Three individuals were subsequently arrested in Dandenong South on Sunday.
Charges Laid
Two men and one woman have been charged in connection with the alleged incident:
- A 23-year-old man from Cranbourne North and a 22-year-old man from Cranbourne East have both been charged with criminal damage and common law assault.
- The 23-year-old Cranbourne North man was remanded in custody and appeared at Dandenong Magistrates' Court on Monday.
- The 22-year-old Cranbourne East man was granted bail and is scheduled to appear at the same court on May 22.
- An 18-year-old woman from Dandenong South was released pending summons.
Official and Community Response
Victoria Police released a statement affirming that "there is absolutely no place for prejudice-motivated, religious-based or hate-based behaviour in our society and such activity will not be tolerated."
The Board of Imams Victoria condemned the alleged attack. The Australian National Imams Council stated that the 47-year-old Noble Park man was recovering.
Following the incident, Imam Purdic met with community leaders, Victorian Multicultural Affairs Minister Ingrid Stitt, and senior police at the Noble Park Mosque. Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan also condemned the alleged attack and affirmed support for the Muslim community.