The horrific shooting incident that unfolded Sunday evening at Australia’s famous Bondi Beach has shaken the entire nation. Not only is this being described as the deadliest gun attack in the past three decades, but it is now believed to be a premeditated terrorist and anti-Semitic assault. With the investigation ongoing, new disclosures continue to emerge, sparking debates about the perpetrators' nationalities.
So far, it has been confirmed that the two attackers were a father-son duo. Identified by local media and the police as 24-year-old Naveed Akram and his 50-year-old father Sajid Akram, the latter was killed in a police counteraction at the scene, whereas the former is hospitalized in critical condition. The attack claimed a total of 16 lives, including 15 civilians and one assailant.
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According to Australian investigative agencies, Naveed Akram's connection to ISIS was exposed back in 2019, leading to an inquiry. Born in Australia, Naveed's father Sajid was visiting on a tourist visa from Pakistan, although Sydney police have not confirmed these details.
Sajid Akram Owned Six Legally Licensed Firearms
The most surprising detail is that Sajid Akram had a legal license for six firearms, all of which were used in the attack. Police also recovered several improvised explosive devices (IEDs) described as rudimentary from the scene.
Shooting Lasted Approximately 10 Minutes
The attack occurred during a Hanukkah gathering of the Jewish community at a park near Bondi Beach, attended by around 1,000 people. Eyewitnesses reported that the assault lasted about 10 minutes, causing hundreds to flee in panic.
Related: Father-Son Duo Behind Sydney Shooting Possessed Licensed Weapons
Over 40 people were injured in the attack, including two police officers. The victims' ages range from 10 to 87 years. The Australian Prime Minister and top security agencies have deemed this a grave warning for national security, advancing the inquiry from an international terrorism angle.
