Inspired by Islamic State, Father–Son Accused Had Travelled to the Philippines; Major Revelation in Australia Attack

Sydney (The Uttam Hindu): Panic erupted at Sydney’s Bondi Beach on Sunday evening when indiscriminate firing broke out during the Jewish community’s Hanukkah celebration, “Chanukah by the Sea.” At least 15 people were killed and dozens injured in the mass shooting, which occurred in the presence of nearly 1,000 attendees. Australian police have described the incident as a terrorist attack, stating that early evidence points to inspiration from the Islamic State (IS) ideology.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said on Tuesday that preliminary investigations indicate the attack was influenced by IS’s extremist thinking, calling it a hate-driven ideology that has fueled violence over the past decade. Police recovered two locally made Islamic State flags and an improvised explosive device (IED) from the attackers’ vehicle.

Authorities identified the attackers as a father and son. The 50-year-old, Sajid Akram, was shot dead at the scene by police, while his 24-year-old son, Naveed Akram, sustained serious injuries and is currently hospitalised under police custody. Investigations revealed that Sajid legally possessed six firearms, which were allegedly used in the attack.

Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon stated that both accused had travelled to the Philippines last month. The purpose of the trip is under investigation, with some reports suggesting possible military-style training. Naveed Akram had earlier come under the scanner of Australia’s intelligence agency ASIO in 2019 for alleged links to an IS-connected network, though he was not deemed an immediate threat at that time.

The attack began around 6:47 pm when the assailants opened fire from a footbridge using long-range rifles, discharging a total of 103 rounds. Among the victims was a 10-year-old girl, while the injured included children and police personnel. During the chaos, an unarmed passerby, Ahmed Al Ahmed, displayed remarkable courage by disarming one of the attackers, potentially saving many lives. Prime Minister Albanese praised his bravery as an example of humanity. New South Wales Premier Chris Minns described the incident as a “barbaric and cowardly attack” on the Jewish community.