Australian police have formally charged a 24-year-old man in connection with the mass shooting that occurred during a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach. The attack, which happened over the weekend, left 15 people dead and injured many others, including children. Authorities say the case is being handled by counter-terrorism investigators as the probe continues.
Suspect Charged in Counter-Terror Investigation
New South Wales Police confirmed that a 24-year-old man has been charged for his alleged role in the Bondi Beach shooting. Investigators believe he was one of two gunmen involved in the deadly attack. The NSW Joint Counter Terrorism Team announced the charge in an official statement released Wednesday, December 17.
Police identified the accused as Naveed Akram, who had been named earlier in the investigation as a suspect. Authorities stated that the case remains active, with further evidence still being reviewed.
Second Suspect Dies at Scene
According to police, the second suspected gunman was the accused man’s father, 50-year-old Sajid Akram. During the incident, officers confronted the suspect, and he was fatally shot by police at the scene. No charges were filed against him due to his death.
Officials have not released further details about the confrontation but confirmed that police action stopped the attack from continuing.
Victims and Ongoing Investigation
The shooting took place around 6:40 p.m. local time on Sunday, December 14, during a public Hanukkah gathering. Emergency services transported 41 people to nearby hospitals, including four children, for treatment of gunshot wounds and other injuries.
Authorities continue to investigate the motive behind the attack and are working closely with community leaders. Police have increased security measures across public events while urging the public to remain vigilant as the investigation moves forward.
