A man accused of firing at a Jewish Hanukkah celebration at Sydney’s popular Bondi Beach has been formally charged with 59 criminal offenses, including murder and terrorism, according to authorities on Wednesday. The incident, involving a father and son, resulted in the tragic deaths of 15 individuals and raised concerns about the surge in antisemitism and violent extremism in the country.
Sajid Akram, aged 50, was fatally shot by police at the scene, while his 24-year-old son Naveed Akram regained consciousness on Tuesday after being shot by law enforcement officers. New South Wales Police revealed that the younger Akram faces a total of 59 charges, including 15 counts of murder, 40 counts of attempted murder, a terrorism charge, and other related offenses.
During a court appearance via video from his hospital bed, Akram’s lawyer refrained from entering pleas or seeking his client’s release on bail. The police stated that the accused man’s actions were intended to cause harm, fear, and loss of life for religious purposes, possibly linked to ISIS, a recognized terrorist group in Australia.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed his commitment to collaborate with the Jewish community to combat antisemitism following criticisms of the government’s response during the Israel-Gaza conflict. Questions arose about how Sajid Akram acquired the firearms used in the attack legally, prompting promises of substantial gun law reforms by the government.
Funerals were held for two rabbis who were close colleagues at the Chabad of Bondi, where they had organized the “Chanukah by the Sea” event. Rabbi Eli Schlanger, 41, and Rabbi Yaakov Levitan, 39, were remembered for their partnership and dedication to their community. The tragic loss of a 10-year-old girl named Matilda, who will be laid to rest on Thursday, further underscored the devastating impact of the shooting.
Despite the harrowing events, acts of bravery and unity were witnessed, with individuals standing strong in the face of tragedy. The community gathered at Bondi Beach for a vigil, reflecting on the collective grief and resilience shown in the aftermath of the heartbreaking incident.