Australia was left in shock after a deadly shooting at Sydney’s iconic Bondi Beach on Sunday evening claimed 16 lives and injured dozens more. Authorities are calling it the deadliest gun attack in the country in nearly three decades, with investigators now probing a possible terrorist and anti-Semitic motive.
The attack took place near a park close to Bondi Beach, where members of the Jewish community had gathered for a Hanukkah celebration. Around 1,000 people were present at the event when gunfire suddenly erupted, triggering panic and chaos.
Father-Son Duo Identified as Attackers
Australian police and local media have identified the attackers as a father and son 50-year-old Sajid Akram and his 24-year-old son, Naveed Akram. Sajid Akram was shot dead at the scene during a police response, while Naveed Akram sustained critical injuries and is currently undergoing treatment in hospital.
Officials confirmed that 16 people died in the attack, including 15 civilians and one of the attackers. More than 40 people were injured, among them two police officers. Victims ranged in age from just 10 years old to 87, highlighting the indiscriminate nature of the assault.
Attacker Entered Australia on Tourist Visa
Investigators revealed that Sajid Akram, one of the attackers killed at the scene, had travelled to Australia from Pakistan on a tourist visa. While his son Naveed Akram was born in Australia, officials are examining Sajid’s travel history, length of stay, and activities prior to the attack. Sydney Police said they are verifying whether his visa conditions were violated or if any red flags were missed during his entry into the country. Authorities have not yet clarified how long Sajid had been in Australia or whether his legal gun licenses were obtained after his arrival. The visa angle is now a key focus of the investigation, especially amid concerns over screening procedures for foreign visitors.
Ten Minutes of Terror
Eyewitnesses said the shooting lasted nearly 10 minutes. As bullets rang out, hundreds of people ran in different directions trying to escape. Parents shielded children, and many hid behind vehicles and trees as emergency sirens filled the area.
The scale and duration of the attack have raised serious concerns over security planning at public events.
ISIS Links and Citizenship Under Scanner
According to Australian investigative agencies, Naveed Akram had previously come under scrutiny in 2019 for suspected links to ISIS. While no charges were filed at the time, his name reportedly appeared in intelligence databases.
Police sources said Naveed was born in Australia, while his father Sajid Akram had arrived from Pakistan on a tourist visa. However, Sydney Police have not officially confirmed further details regarding citizenship or immigration status.
Licensed Guns and Explosives Found
One of the most alarming revelations in the case is that Sajid Akram legally possessed six firearms. Authorities confirmed that these licensed weapons were used during the attack. Police also recovered several improvised explosive devices (IEDs) from the scene, though they described them as “basic” in nature.
The discovery has sparked renewed debate in Australia over gun licensing and background checks.
Government Calls It a Serious Security Threat
Australia’s Prime Minister and top security officials described the incident as a major warning for national security. Counter-terror agencies are now working with international partners as the investigation expands to include possible global terror links.
Security has been tightened across major cities, and police presence has been increased at religious and public gatherings nationwide.
As Australia mourns the victims, questions are being raised about intelligence failures, gun laws, and how such an attack could unfold in one of the country’s most popular public spaces.
