A man accused of committing a deadly attack at Bondi Beach during a Jewish holiday is set to face additional charges. Naveed Akram, 24, and his father, Sajid, are believed to have opened fire at a Hanukah gathering in Sydney on December 14. While Sajid was fatally shot on the spot, Akram is now confronted with 19 new charges, including multiple counts of attempted murder, causing injuries with intent, and using a firearm to resist arrest.
Previously, the 24-year-old faced 59 charges, including murder and terrorism-related offenses. Akram, currently detained in a high-security prison, has not yet entered a plea. The fresh charges were detailed in court documents and were brought forth in April before Akram’s hearing at Downing Centre Local Court in Sydney.
According to New South Wales Police, the father-son duo parked near Archer Park in Bondi on the fateful evening, where they allegedly attempted to harm a group of people by throwing improvised explosive devices, none of which detonated. The violent incident resulted in injuries to two officers and multiple individuals, including Rabbi Eli Schlanger, a father of five and assistant rabbi at Chabad of Bondi.
Court documents suggest that Sajid and Naveed Akram conducted reconnaissance and firearms training leading up to the attack. The investigation revealed a larger explosive device in the son’s vehicle, adorned with flags linked to the Islamic State group. Akram is scheduled to appear in court in June.
This tragic event prompted official inquiries into potential security lapses and the prevalence of antisemitism in Australian society. A royal commission has been established to delve into the circumstances surrounding the Bondi shooting and to evaluate the need for stricter gun control measures. The commission commenced public hearings recently as part of its comprehensive investigation.
