Australia confirmed that Sajid Akram, the father in the deadly Bondi Beach shooting, was an Indian citizen. Documents reveal the Indian embassy issued his passport in 2022. Early reports incorrectly claimed he was Pakistani, misleading global media.
Sajid and his son, Naveed Akram, carried out the attack during a Jewish Hanukkah celebration in Sydney. Sajid, 50, was shot dead at the scene, while Naveed, 24, survived and is facing 59 charges. Charges include terrorism, murder, wounding with intent, and firearm offences, according to New South Wales Police.
Read more: Bondi Beach shooting: Suspect charged with 59 counts
Investigators are examining the attackers’ recent travel, including trips to the Philippines. Authorities say the attack may have been inspired by ISIS, though Philippine officials deny their territory was used for training. Both attackers carried firearms legally registered to Sajid Akram, who had traveled internationally before the shooting.
The attack killed 15 people and injured dozens, including two police officers. Funerals for victims Rabbi Eli Schlanger and Rabbi Yaakov Levitan drew thousands of mourners. Ahmed al-Ahmed, a Syrian Australian, was hailed as a hero after confronting the gunmen, preventing further deaths.
Read more: ‘Dark Day’ for Australia as 12 killed in Bondi Beach shooting
In response, Australian authorities plan urgent gun law reforms. Parliament will debate measures to limit firearm ownership and reclassify shotguns. The investigation continues, focusing on international links, financial records, and electronic devices connected to the attackers.