Australia: MPs apparently attacked by car

Australian MP Helen Haines appears to have been the victim of a targeted attack. She was hit by an SUV outside her constituency office in Victoria state and taken to a Melbourne hospital with serious injuries. According to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, security forces arrested a suspect, but his motive is still unclear. Anti-terrorism investigators were also called in. The ABC broadcaster spoke of a “shocking incident”.

Police say the 43-year-old man allegedly rammed Haines with a white Toyota that afternoon. The independent MP (65) reportedly suffered serious injuries, particularly to her lower body. Investigators found a knife in the vehicle. It is not yet known whether the suspect and Haines knew each other.

"There is an extensive police investigation underway and I can confirm that a suspect is in custody," Albanese told reporters. It is still too early to provide any information about the possible background. "But that wasn't an accident," he emphasized.

The visibly shaken Prime Minister expressed concern about the politician's condition. »Our thoughts are with her family, her friends and her team. We hope and pray that she will make a full recovery,” he said.

Home Secretary Tony Burke cited an increase in threats and harassment against MPs and other senior officials. However, the investigation into the incident in Wangaratta, northeast of Melbourne, is still in its early stages.