Terror attacks increase suspicion and hatred

On November 09 in Victoria of Melbourne in Australia, Somali-born Hassain Khalif Shire Ali set fire to a pickup truck full of gas cylinders and stabbed three people, killing one. Later the 30-year-old killer was shot by police. He succumbed to his injuries after he was taken to the hospital. Melbourne Police are considering this as an act of terrorism.

Such senseless acts are sad as they end up taking the lives of innocent people. Also, in the process, such attacks increase tensions and suspicion against Muslims residing in the West.

It needs to be remembered that some evil people churn hatred among impressionable and young people. They are brainwashed in such a way that they become willing to sacrifice their lives to carry out such attacks.

It may be noted that the deceased terrorist was a "person of interest" to both the Victoria state police and Australian federal intelligence services. He was convicted of cannabis use and theft in the past. Increased vigilance from law enforcing agencies as well as communities can curb risks of terrorism. Terrorism needs to be thwarted everywhere in the world.

Sojol Chowdhury

Badda, Dhaka