For a second night, racial rioting has plagued the streets of Sydney, Australia. Dozens have been arrested, but police haven’t yet been able to quell the violence. Part of the problem has to do with the way individuals are inciting one another to continue rioting. Text messages sent by angry youths initiated the violence and the technology continues to be the used to encourage more people to join the fight.
According to New Zealand TV station TVNZ:
One (text message) congratulated Australians for the fight they put up against the Lebanese, but called for more attacks.
“We’ll show them! It’s on again Sunday,” the message said.
Another warned of retaliation from the Middle Eastern groups.
“The Aussies will feel the full force of the Arabs as one – `brothers in arms’ unite now…”, the message said.
Another called for “straight up WAR”.
“The leb’s/wogs won’t stand for this…”, it said.
Last night, a mob of 5,000 chased and bashed people of Middle Eastern appearance at Cronulla Beach, a hot spot for surfing.
Prime Minister John Howard must get a handle on the situation as soon as possible. Australia doesn’t need to rival or best the recent riots in Paris.
Tim Blair blogs from Australia and provides updates here.
Video news report from Ynetnews (Israel)