Police are investigating a shocking attack on two members of the clergy as they were walking in the Mt Austin area.
Witnesses have told police that the two priests were walking to the Japanese War Memorial when they were set upon by a gang of youths.The priests were seriously injured in the attack that has left them hospitalized.
Police said the attack took place about 5:30pm yesterday afternoon (Wednesday).
Police have not been able to find a motive for the apparently unprovoked attack.
Police Commissioner, Mohammed Jahir Khan, said he was disgusted with the actions of the attackers.
"I have ordered a priority investigation into this shocking and unprovoked attack on two respectable members of the clergy. I am appalled that these two innocent men were attacked while they were going about their seemingly peaceful business."
"It is a great slur on our society when priests are attacked like this. I am personally appealing to anyone in the community who may have information about this matter to come forward to the police so we can put the attackers in their rightful place; behind bars," the Commissioner said.
On a parade at Rove today, the Commissioner expressed his concern over the attack.
He urged police officers to be vigilant at all times to this sort of activity and, even if off duty, to be mindful of their obligations as a police officer.
The Commissioner also passed his sincere wishes for a speedy recovery to the two priests.