Detectives are continuing to investigate a suspicious fire at a synagogue in East Melbourne on Friday night.
An unknown man was seen walking through Parliament Gardens before entering the grounds of the synagogue on Albert Street about 8pm.
The man poured a flammable liquid on the front door of the building and set it on fire before fleeing the scene on foot in a westerly direction along Albert Street.
There were approximately 20 people inside the synagogue at the time of the incident taking part in Shabbat.
Everyone inside self-evacuated through the rear of the building and were uninjured.
Firefighters extinguished the fire which was contained to the front entrance.
There is no place for hatred or discrimination of any kind and police are engaging with people from the synagogue and other representatives from the Jewish community to ensure appropriate supports are in place.
Detectives from the Counter Terrorism Security Investigation Unit have primacy of the investigation.
Whilst the matter has not been deemed a terrorism incident, during the investigation police will examine the intent and ideology of the person or persons involved to determine if the incident is in fact terrorism.
Detectives are releasing an image of a man they would like to speak to in relation to the incident.
He is described as in his mid 30's, with a beard, long hair and wearing a dark blue / black jumper, black pants and black beanie.
Detectives are investigating if there are any links to two overnight incidents; a public order incident in Melbourne's Hardware Lane and an arson attack and criminal damage to a business on Para Road, Greensborough.
No one was physically injured at either incident.
Local detectives are also liaising with Crime Command and Counter Terrorism Command to establish if there are any connections.
There will also be increased patrols around they synagogue today, along with Melbourne CBD, Greensborough and south-east regions.
Anyone who witnessed the incident, has CCTV, dashcam footage or any other information that could assist police is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
