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Melbourne incident an “act of evil” says Premier Andrews

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Video courtesy of Filipinos in Australia.

Media conference following an incident on Melbourne CBD 21 December 2017

A white SUV ploughed through several pedestrians along Flinders Street resulting in 19 people being injured and taken to the hospital including four in critical condition.

Police arrested two men, including a 32-year-old Australian citizen of Afghan descent which the police say deliberately crashed into pedestrians.

Acting Chief Commissioner Shane Patton said the man was arrested by an off-duty police officer.

But he said there was no evidence to indicate there was a connection with terrorism.

“We don’t at this time have any evidence or any intelligence to indicate there’s a connection with terrorism,” he said.

A second man, 24, was seen filming the incident and was found to be carrying a bag with knives in it.

He was also arrested, but police believe he had no links to the incident.

Statement from the Premier

This was a statement released by Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews:

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“What happened in Flinders Street today was an act of evil.

“This was an attack on innocent bystanders – people finishing their Christmas shopping, heading home from work, unwinding for the year.

“They did not deserve this. Our city did not deserve this.

“Christmas should be a time of celebration, spent with loved ones.

“Instead, for many Victorian families, it will now be a permanent reminder of the day their lives changed forever.

“To the victims and their families, we extend our support and our love.

“And to those heroes – our first responders, and those who rushed to the aid of others – we extend our deepest thanks.

“Anyone affected can contact the Victims Support Helpline on 1800 819 817.

“Tonight, Victorians stand strong, and we stand together.”

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