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Three Indian students among those injured in Sydney’s Bondi Beach ‘terror attack’
The attack which authorities have described as Australia’s worst mass shooting in nearly three decades, claimed at least 15 lives, including that of a 10-year-old child.
Rabbi Motti Feldman, lower left, speaks at a menorah lighting ceremony at a floral memorial for victims of Sunday's shooting, at the Bondi Pavilion at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia. (Source: AP Photo)
Three Indian students were reportedly among at least 40 people injured in a suspected terrorist attack at Sydney’s Bondi Beach during a public Hanukkah by the Sea celebration. Two of the injured students are believed to be undergoing treatment in the hospital, though their identities and exact medical condition have not yet been officially disclosed, according to Australian media reports. One of them had an Indian passport when they visited the Philippines.
The attack which authorities have described as Australia’s worst mass shooting in nearly three decades, claimed at least 15 lives, including that of a 10-year-old child. Five victims remain in critical condition, while two injured police officers are reported to be serious but stable.
Police have identified the alleged attackers as Naveed Akram, 24, and his father, Sajid Akram, 50. The two allegedly opened fire on the gathering before police intervened. Sajid Akram died at the scene, while Naveed Akram, who sustained gunshot injuries is currently under police guard in hospital.
Investigators say the attack was ideologically motivated. Two homemade ISIS flags and improvised explosive devices were recovered from a vehicle linked to the younger suspect. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said authorities believe the attackers were driven by “Islamic State ideology.”
New South Wales Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon said the investigation is widening as new information emerges, including the suspects’ recent international travel. The duo had reportedly visited the Philippines in November, and the purpose of that trip is now under scrutiny. Police have also confirmed the discovery of extremist material connected to the case.
In response to the attack, Prime Minister Albanese appealed for national unity and announced plans to further strengthen Australia’s already stringent gun laws. Following an emergency national cabinet meeting, he said the government would fast-track reforms, including the digitisation of gun records and tighter controls on firearms licensing.
“We have agreed to accelerate the digitisation of gun records and ensure licences are not issued in perpetuity,” Albanese said, stressing that public safety would remain the government’s top priority as the nation mourns the victims of the attack.
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