Investigators have identified the two armed assailants behind the attack on Jewish Hanukkah celebrations at Sydney’s Bondi Beach as a father-son duo, Naveed Akram (24) and Sajid Akram (50). New South Wales Police said both men had arrived from Pakistan. Sajid Akram was killed at the scene during a counter-operation by security forces, while authorities confirmed that he had held a firearms licence since 2015, was a member of a hunting club and possessed six weapons, all of which were seized during the investigation.
Police further revealed that one of the accused had earlier been on the radar of the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation but was not considered an immediate threat at the time. As the probe deepened, investigators recovered two ISIS flags from the suspects’ vehicle and seized two improvised explosive devices from the attack site. Officials also said Naveed Akram had links with an Islamic State operative who was arrested in Australia in 2019, strengthening suspicions of extremist connections in the case.
During the attack, a bystander, Ahmed Al Ahmed, confronted Sajid Akram and managed to wrestle a firearm from him, preventing further casualties. Ahmed sustained serious injuries in the struggle and was rushed to St George Hospital, where doctors said his condition is stable. His bravery has drawn widespread praise, with several public figures acknowledging his actions, including investment banker Bill Ackman, who announced a reward in recognition of his courage.
The deadly incident, which claimed 16 lives, has prompted the Australian government to reassess national gun safety measures. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said stricter firearm laws are being considered, including limits on the number of guns owned by licensed holders, stressing that the government is prepared to take all necessary steps to strengthen public safety and prevent similar attacks in the future.