Sydney woke up to shock and grief after police confirmed that a father and son were behind the deadly terror attack at Bondi Beach, where at least 16 people, including a 10-year-old child, were killed during Hanukkah celebrations. The incident has sparked nationwide outrage and pushed the Australian government to consider tighter gun control measures.
What Happened at Bondi Beach
According to New South Wales Police, the shooting unfolded during a public Hanukkah event at Bondi Beach, one of Sydney’s busiest and most iconic locations. The attackers opened fire on the crowd, triggering chaos and panic as people tried to flee the area.
Police have identified the gunmen as 50-year-old Sajid Akram and his 24-year-old son, Naveed Akram. Sajid was shot dead by law enforcement at the scene, while Naveed was arrested alive and is currently undergoing medical treatment for his injuries.
Authorities said the duo originally hailed from Pakistan, a detail confirmed through initial investigations and official briefings.
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Licensed Firearms, Extremism Angle Under Probe
NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon revealed that Sajid Akram was a licensed firearm holder and had six registered guns in his name. This disclosure has raised serious questions about firearm monitoring and background checks in the country.
Investigators are also looking into a possible extremist connection after an ISIS flag was recovered from the attackers’ vehicle. However, police have stressed that it is too early to draw conclusions.
“We will look closely at the motive behind this attack,” Lanyon said. “The investigation will be thorough, and we will share more details once facts are confirmed.”
Albanese Pushes for Tougher Gun Laws
A day after the attack, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese signalled a strong policy response, saying the government is prepared to act if gaps are found in existing gun laws.
Speaking to reporters, Albanese said the proposed changes could limit the number of firearms a licensed individual can own and tighten licence review processes.
“People’s circumstances can change. People can be radicalised over time,” he said. “Licences should not be in perpetuity.”
Australia is known for its strict gun laws following the 1996 Port Arthur massacre, but the Bondi incident has reopened the debate on whether current safeguards are still enough.
Jewish Community in Shock
The attack has deeply shaken Australia’s Jewish community, which was directly targeted during a religious celebration. Community leaders have condemned the violence, calling it an act of terror and hatred.
Several videos from the scene have surfaced on social media, showing the moments of chaos as gunshots rang out near the beach. In total, 38 people were injured, many of them seriously.
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Investigation Ongoing
Police say the case remains active, with counter-terror units assisting local authorities. Officials are examining the attackers’ background, online activity, and possible networks to determine whether the act was inspired or directed by extremist ideology.
For now, Australia mourns the victims while grappling with hard questions around security, radicalisation, and gun access in a changing threat landscape.
