An Assyrian church bishop who was attacked during a service stated he is recovering well and has forgiven his assailant, as police intensify their investigation into the riots that followed the incident.

Two separate knife attacks in Sydney, including one at a popular shopping area near Bondi beach that claimed six lives, have deeply unsettled residents. Bishop Mar Mari Emmanuel, known for his presence on TikTok and controversial sermons, was injured in the church attack, which authorities suspect was motivated by religious extremism.

Despite the violence and ensuing riots outside the church, Bishop Emmanuel urged his followers to remain calm and lawful. The situation escalated with an angry crowd confronting emergency services demanding the apprehension of the suspect.

The police have since charged a 19-year-old man in connection with the riot, emphasizing that those involved in the violence will face consequences. The Bondi shopping mall, where one of the attacks occurred, has reopened for tributes, with businesses expected to resume normal operations shortly.

The community is struggling to process the events, moving from shock to grief, with plans for a candlelight vigil to honor the victims. The city's mayor expressed the need for time to heal and cope with the tragedy.