A tragic terror attack at Sydney’s Bondi Beach on Sunday night has left 15 people dead and many more injured. Police say a father and son opened fire during a Jewish Hanukkah celebration in what authorities are calling an act of terrorism.
The Australian Federal Police say the attackers were inspired by extremist ideology linked to the Islamic State group.
Who Carried Out the Bondi Beach Attack?
Police have identified the alleged gunmen as 50‑year‑old Sajid Akram and his 24‑year‑old son Naveed Akram, a father‑son pair from Sydney.
Sajid was killed by police at the scene after they exchanged fire. His son, Naveed, was shot and taken to a hospital, where he remains under guard.
Indian National Confirmed by the Philippines
Philippine immigration officials have confirmed Sajid Akram entered the Philippines this year as an Indian national before returning to Australia. The pair arrived in Manila on November 1 and travelled to Davao, a city in the southern Philippines. They left the country on November 28, authorities said.
The reason for the trip is now part of a wider investigation, especially because the southern Philippines has seen activity from extremist groups in the past.
Attack Took Place During Hanukkah Festival
The mass shooting occurred at a Hanukkah event at Bondi Beach on the evening of December 14. The celebration drew more than a thousand people when the gunmen opened fire.
Local witnesses reported multiple gunshots and panic as people scrambled for cover. Police and emergency services arrived promptly, but the attack caused widespread shock across the community.
Australian authorities have stated that the attack was likely inspired by Islamic State ideology. Federal police said early evidence points to ideological motivation rather than coordination with a larger network.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the duo appeared to have acted alone, although their beliefs clearly influenced their assault.
Firearms and the Background of the Shooters
Sajid held a legal firearms licence in Australia and owned multiple guns.
His son, Naveed, was known to security agencies in the past, and domestic intelligence had examined him in 2019 for possible extremist links—but at that time found no immediate threat.
National Reaction and Gun Law Debate
The attack has reignited debate in Australia about gun control and public safety. In the days after the shooting, national leaders have vowed to revisit gun laws and strengthen measures to prevent similar tragedies.
Thousands of Australians have mourned the victims, leaving flowers and holding vigils at Bondi Beach. The tragedy has drawn statements of solidarity from world leaders and global Jewish communities.
Heroic Efforts and Public Response
Amid the horror, stories have emerged of courage and selflessness. Bystanders and local emergency workers helped protect victims and attempted to stop the attackers before police arrived. Police and intelligence agencies are continuing their investigation into the motives, travel history, and possible contacts of the attackers.
Australian officials are coordinating with foreign authorities, including in the Philippines, to better understand the trip made by Sajid and Naveed before the attack. The full impact of this terror act is still unfolding as families and communities seek answers and justice.