A 50-year-old man is scheduled to appear in court following an alleged verbal assault on a 13-year-old Muslim girl aboard a bus in Sydney’s inner west. The incident, which occurred on September 10, involved a torrent of abusive language directed at the Year 8 student, identified as Janna, on a bus traveling through Strathfield. Disturbing footage of the alleged attack later circulated online.
Alleged Abuse on Public Transport
According to reports, the man turned to Janna and subjected her to a barrage of insults. The offensive language included derogatory terms such as “f…ing terrorist” and “immigrant dog.” The video evidence also captured further slurs, with the girl reportedly being called a “c..k sucking f…ing animal” and a “piece of s..t.” Despite Janna informing the man that she was born in Australia and highlighting her young age, the abuse reportedly continued.
The incident escalated after Janna allegedly intervened when she saw the man taking photos of another girl wearing a hijab without her consent. Following the alleged tirade, both Janna and other passengers reported the incident to the police after the bus arrived at Strathfield Railway Station. The accused man reportedly disembarked the bus on Liverpool Road.
Police Investigation and Charges
Following the report, police launched an investigation. On Tuesday, officers arrested a 50-year-old man at a residence in Greenacre, a suburb near Strathfield. Authorities have formally charged the individual with stalking and intimidation with the intent to cause fear of physical harm.
The accused was denied bail and is expected to make his first appearance at Bankstown Local Court on Wednesday. The charges underscore the seriousness with which law enforcement is treating the alleged hate-motivated incident.
Community Reaction and Support
Janna and her mother expressed their distress over the incident, describing the attack as “really disgusting” in statements made to the ABC. The footage also reportedly captured the man making threatening remarks, including, “I can’t wait ‘til they kill all of you.”
The alleged attack has drawn strong condemnation from local political figures and community leaders. Jason Yat-sen Li, the State Labor MP for Strathfield, released a statement expressing his profound anger and dismay. He commended Janna for her bravery in speaking out, noting that she was allegedly subjected to “vile tirade of racist and Islamophobic abuse” in response.
“Let me be absolutely clear: Strathfield will not tolerate racist or Islamophobic abuse, particularly when it targets children,” Mr. Li stated. His remarks highlight a commitment to ensuring that the Strathfield community remains a safe and inclusive place for all residents.
Aftab Malik, the Islamophobia Envoy, speaking to the ABC, noted a concerning trend identified by the Islamophobia Register Australia, suggesting that perpetrators are increasingly targeting younger individuals. This observation adds a layer of concern regarding the vulnerability of young people to such forms of abuse.
New South Wales Premier Chris Minns also addressed the incident, affirming that Muslim women and girls have an unequivocal right to wear their religious attire, travel on public transport, and attend school without facing harassment or abuse. His comments reinforce the government’s stance against religious and racial discrimination.
Resources for Support
For individuals who may have experienced or witnessed similar incidents, or who require support, several resources are available. Young people seeking assistance can contact beyondblue via phone at 1300 22 4636 or visit their website. Mental health support is also accessible through headspace.org.au.
