Australian authorities have charged a 24-year-old man with terrorism and 15 counts of murder following a deadly shooting at Bondi Beach in Sydney that left at least 15 people dead and more than 40 injured, according to the New South Wales Police, reports Baltimore Chronicle.
Police identified the suspect as Naveed Akram, who is facing a total of 59 criminal charges connected to the attack. Among them are 40 counts of causing wounding or grievous bodily harm with intent to murder, as well as offenses related to the discharge of a firearm and the public display of a prohibited terrorist organization’s symbol. Investigators also allege Akram placed an explosive device in or near a building with intent to cause harm.
The shooting occurred during a Hanukkah gathering at Bondi Beach on Sunday, where authorities say Akram opened fire alongside his father, Sajid Akram, 50. According to law enforcement officials, 15 people were killed at the scene, while dozens more sustained injuries of varying severity. The suspect’s father was shot and killed by police during the incident after allegedly firing at the crowd.
Akram remains hospitalized under police guard and appeared in court on Wednesday via video link, officials said. The New South Wales Joint Counter Terrorism Team has taken over the investigation after Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon formally classified the attack as terror-related.
In announcing the charges, investigators stated that police will allege in court that Akram engaged in actions causing death and serious injury in order to advance a religious cause and spread fear within the community. Authorities said early findings suggest the attack was inspired by ISIS, which is designated as a terrorist organization in Australia.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said investigators are examining evidence that the suspect and his father traveled to the Philippines in the weeks prior to the attack and may have been influenced by extremist ideology linked to ISIS. He confirmed that intelligence agencies are continuing to assess possible international connections.
As of Wednesday, officials reported that 20 injured victims remained hospitalized across Sydney, including two police officers. One constable was listed in critical but stable condition, while a probationary constable was reported to be in stable condition. Albanese publicly praised medical workers for their efforts in responding to the mass-casualty incident, highlighting the role of hospital staff who worked through the night to save lives.
Earlier we wrote that Shooting at Bondi Beach During Hanukkah Leaves 10 Dead, Suspects in Custody.
