| Firebombing of Mayor’s car escalates to counter terrorism investigation |
** “All we can do is have each other’s backs, and that means choosing
kindness and reason over anger and violence, calm over aggression, and
empathy over apathy.” – Ola Hamed
|
Firebombing of Mayor’s car escalates to counter terrorism investigation
19/04/2026
(See translation in Arabic section)
Sydney-Middle East Times Int'l: NSW counter terrorism police are now leading the investigation into the early morning firebombing of the family car of Cumberland Mayor Ola Hamed, an attack that has heightened concerns about politically, religiously, or racially motivated violence in local Australian politics.
The incident occurred at approximately 3.10am on Saturday outside the mayor’s Merrylands home, when a Mercedes hatchback belonging to her husband was set alight. Two other nearby vehicles were also damaged. Emergency services responded swiftly, extinguishing the fire before it spread to the residence. No one was physically injured.
Mayor Mrs Hamed later confirmed that the matter had been referred to the counter terrorism unit, reflecting the seriousness with which authorities are treating the attack. Police have not yet determined a motive, with investigators examining whether the arson was politically or racially driven.
Photo- TDT The perpetrators are believed to have fled the scene on e bikes or motorbikes.
In remarks provided to the Middle East Times, Mayor Mrs Hamed said the attack had been “frightening” for her family but stressed that they were safe and unharmed. She expressed sincere gratitude to local police, firefighters, and emergency services, whose rapid response ensured the damage was confined to the vehicle.
She acknowledged that incidents of this nature are intended to intimidate and divide communities but urged a different response.
“Often, we feel hopeless in the face of incidents like these that are intended to cause harm,” she said. “All we can do is have each other’s backs, and that means choosing kindness and reason over anger and violence, calm over aggression, and empathy over apathy.”
Mayor Mrs Hamed, who became Cumberland’s first female Muslim mayor in 2024, said it remained unclear whether the attack targeted her because of her gender, faith, political role, or whether it was a case of mistaken identity.
She also urged political leaders and public figures to lower the tone of public discourse, warning that heated rhetoric can have real world consequences. Despite the attack, she said it would not deter her from her responsibilities.
“This will not stop me from doing the job I was elected to do,” she said. “The support I have received from the community has meant a great deal to my family and me, and I encourage people to carry that kindness into all their interactions.”
The investigation remains ongoing. |
