Images of suspect released by Australian police who wrecked Hindu temple in Sydney

• Image Credit: India weekly

• May 13, 2023 | Poonam Nath

Last week, the perpetrators allegedly vandalised the temple by spray painting graffiti on its façade...

Digital Desk: Police in Australia's New South Wales (NSW) published pictures of the suspects on Saturday, only days after the BAPS Swaminarayan temple in Western Sydney was vandalised. They are asking for the public's assistance in identifying the perpetrators of the Rosehill suburb incident.

Last week, the perpetrators allegedly vandalised the temple by spray painting graffiti on its façade. According to The Australia Today, a police investigation indicated that the event occurred between 1-2 a.m. on May 5. Following the vandalism, a 'Khalistan flag' was observed hanging on the temple's gate.

The police photograph was released on the day of the incident. It depicts a man standing near the temple, dressed in black clothing, a beanie, and a face mask.

Aside from the accused, the police also released a photo of a car seen on Virginia Street on May 5 morning. According to ANI, police believe the occupants in the car could assist with the investigation.

Cumberland Commander, Superintendent Sheridan Waldau, said police are working closely with communities of western Sydney to apprehend the perpetrators.

"The local community can be important to the investigation because they can assist the police with their investigation." "However, any information received from them will be strictly confidential," the police said, pointing to an article in The Australia Today.

Following the tragedy, the BAPS Swaminarayan temple issued a statement expressing their "deeply saddened" and "disheartened" feelings.

"For the last 23 years, the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir has been a cornerstone of the local community and a prominent Hindu Temple, which, like all BAPS temples worldwide, is an abode of peace and harmony, equality, selfless service, and universal Hindu values," according to the statement.

The temple also urged its followers and community members to keep the peace.