Both legs of Australian independent MP Helen Haines, who was struck in a car attack, have had to be amputated. Her husband confirmed on Wednesday that doctors had been unable to save her legs despite their efforts. Counter-terrorism investigators have joined police in the inquiry, Reuters news agency reported.
A 43-year-old suspect from Tarrawingee, named as Brendan N., appeared before Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday. He was charged with intentionally causing serious injury, causing serious injury by dangerous driving, and harming a Commonwealth official.
The 65-year-old lawmaker underwent surgery on Monday night in a critical condition. Her left leg was amputated on Tuesday, and on Wednesday doctors were forced to amputate her right leg as well.
Speaking to reporters in Melbourne, her husband Phil Haines said the good news amid all of this was that Helen was alive and in a stable condition. Witnesses said a white Toyota SUV struck Haines, and the driver then reversed the vehicle and ran her over a second time.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said this was no accident and appeared to be a deliberate act. Immediately after the incident a local barber, Ricky Jeffreys, ran over, pulled the driver out of the car, took a knife from him and held him until police arrived.
The attack has raised fresh and serious concern in Australia about the safety of politicians and rising political violence. Before entering parliament in 2019, Helen Haines worked as a nurse and midwife. She is particularly known for her strong stance on climate change.
বাংলায় মূল প্রতিবেদন পড়ুন · Read the original Bengali report