Sydney, Australia – Chaos ensued in Wakeley, Sydney, as violence erupted after Bishop Mar Mari Emmanuel was stabbed during a church service. The situation escalated quickly, with police and paramedics facing a hostile and aggressive crowd outside Christ The Good Shepherd Church. Videos shared on social media captured the tense atmosphere, with the crowd demanding for the perpetrator to be brought out.
As the scene unfolded, two police officers were injured, one sustaining a broken jaw and the other with knee and facial injuries. Paramedics, who arrived to provide medical assistance, also faced threats from the growing mob. Six paramedics sought refuge inside the church for over three hours to ensure their safety.
New South Wales Ambulance Commissioner Dominic Morgan described the incident as “terrifying” for the paramedics involved. The hostility shown towards those trying to provide help was deemed unacceptable by Health Minister Ryan Park. The safety and security of healthcare workers in such situations were called into question, highlighting the challenges faced by those in emergency services.
The violent outburst led to significant damage, with numerous police vehicles vandalized, windows smashed, and several officers injured. NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb condemned the actions of the crowd, promising that those involved in the chaos would be arrested in the coming days. A strike force, named Strike Force Dribs, was established to address the unrest, with additional patrols planned to prevent further incidents.
President of the Police Association of NSW Kevin Morton expressed concerns for the well-being of law enforcement officers as they navigate challenging situations in the line of duty. The events in Wakeley underscore the risks faced by frontline workers who must respond to emergencies and maintain public safety.
Overall, the violent incident at the Wakeley church serves as a reminder of the dangers faced by emergency responders and the importance of community support for those who provide essential services. The aftermath of the riot raises questions about security measures and the need for collaboration between law enforcement and the public to prevent similar occurrences in the future.