Father-Son Duo Suspected in Bondi Attack
Authorities have identified a father-son duo as the alleged gunmen responsible for the Bondi Beach massacre, reportedly using legally acquired firearms for the attack, as per police statements.
Details of the Attack
24-year-old Naveed Akram was apprehended at the scene and transported to a Sydney hospital with severe injuries, while his 50-year-old father, identified by sources as Sajid Akram, was shot dead by police. The pair is accused of killing 15 individuals during the shooting that occurred on Sunday, which coincided with a Hanukah celebration.
Firearm Licenses and Police Involvement
Naveed was already known to New South Wales police and security agencies. His father held a firearms license that included six registered weapons, all of which have since been recovered, according to law enforcement. Four guns were retrieved at the Bondi scene, while additional firearms were found during a subsequent police raid in Campsie.
Police Investigations and Gun Law Changes
NSW police commissioner Mal Lanyon noted that both men had resided in Bonnyrigg, where a raid occurred the same night. He stated there was no initial sign that they had planned the attack, confirming that Sajid had held a gun license for the past decade. In light of the incident, NSW Premier Chris Minns suggested potential changes to gun laws and indicated an investigation into possible system failures regarding the licensing of firearms used in the attack.
Background of the Suspects
According to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Naveed was under scrutiny from the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) in 2019 for six months due to his associations, but he was deemed not to pose a significant threat. Naveed, who is reportedly an Australian citizen, had a history of interest in hunting activities, although it remains unverified whether he possessed a firearms license himself.
Personal Accounts and Community Response
Former colleagues described Naveed as an odd yet diligent worker when he was employed as a bricklayer. He had recently claimed to have sustained a hand injury, which would prevent him from working until 2026. Following the attack, concerns were expressed by community members who felt the shock of the violent incident in what was previously a peaceful environment.
Community Reactions
Expressions of grief and disbelief permeated the area as residents reflected on the impact of the tragedy. Community leaders and officials are calling for a reassessment of both firearm regulations and intelligence protocols to prevent such incidents in the future, emphasizing the need for safeguards to protect the public.
