An extremist group with alleged pro-Palestine affiliations has claimed responsibility for an arson attack and vandalism at a defence manufacturer in Melbourne, Australia. The incident occurred shortly before 4 a.m. on July 5, 2025, at Lovitt Technologies in Greensborough, a suburb northeast of the city.
An online video, reportedly released by the group, shows a masked individual setting vehicles alight and outlining grievances, according to allegations by the Victorian Joint Counter Terrorism Team. The team, comprising officers from Victoria Police, the Australian Federal Police, and ASIO, is investigating whether the group subscribes to 'far-left extremist' and anarchist ideologies.
The group allegedly stated the attack was motivated by a belief that Lovitt Technologies was part of the Australian Defence Force's supply chain. The video also reportedly contained instructions on creating incendiary devices similar to the one suspected in the fire that damaged vehicles at the manufacturing business.
Authorities stated that the offenders fled the scene via a back fence, traveling southwest on e-bikes along Plenty River. If convicted of federal criminal offenses related to the preparation or commissioning of a terrorist act, the individuals could face life imprisonment.
Detective Acting Superintendent Anthony Wheatfill of Victoria Police emphasized the dangerous nature of the attack, stating that using such violent methods to express political viewpoints is unacceptable. He added that fire is inherently dangerous and that criminal acts with the potential to cause death or serious injury will not be tolerated.
Police have urged any members of the public who possess information about the offenders, the attack, or were in the vicinity at the time to contact them.