New information on the Australian policy of being rammed by a car

Albanese confirmed that the suspect had been arrested. The case is being investigated by the Australian Federal Police, Victoria Police and intelligence services.

Let the police investigate. It is important that people allow this process to take place and that we base it on facts and not on speculation, the Prime Minister said on Tuesday, quoted by 7News.

He added that at this stage it is not known what motivated the attacker.

He hit a politician twice

The incident occurred when Haines parked in front of her office and leaned over her open trunk. According to reports, the driver hit her twice with his car, pressing her against her own car.

The attacker was overpowered by a local hairdresser who pulled him out of the vehicle and held him until the officers arrived. The Prime Minister thanked the man for his reaction.

Police later said a knife was found in the suspect's car. The media identified the detainee as environmental activist Brendan Nugent.

Treatment and possible charges

Haines was airlifted to the hospital. Some Australian media reported that one of her legs had been amputated and doctors were trying to save the other.

The detainee's interrogations are ongoing. As ABC reported, he may be charged with causing grievous bodily harm to a public official. Such an offense is punishable by up to 10 years in prison.

The man also underwent a mental health evaluation. Its results have not been disclosed.

Statement by the detainee's family

Nugent's family said he has been friends with Helen Haines for more than two decades. The detainee's father and his partner declared: "We will help Victoria Police in every way we can."

During the election campaign, Helen Haines advocated, among others: for increased unemployment benefits and a more decisive policy on climate change.