Bondi Beach Shooter Faces 15 Murder Charges After Hanukkah Attack

Australian authorities on Wednesday charged Naveed Akram, 24, with 59 offences, including 15 counts of murder, following the deadly shooting at Bondi Beach on December 14. Akram, son of co-gunman Sajid Akram who was killed at the scene, had been recovering in a Sydney hospital after being shot by police during the attack.

The Bondi Beach massacre targeted attendees of a Hanukkah celebration, with all confirmed victims belonging to the Jewish community. Hundreds of mourners gathered in Sydney as funerals began for those killed, ranging in age from a 10-year-old girl to an 87-year-old Holocaust survivor. The first funeral was held for Eli Schlanger, a 41-year-old assistant rabbi who organized the event.

Police stated that Akram’s charges include one count of murder for each fatality, one count of committing a terrorist act, 40 counts of causing harm with intent to murder, and charges related to explosives found in the suspects’ vehicle. Authorities believe the attack was “inspired by Islamic State,” marking it as Australia’s deadliest hate-fueled massacre in recent times.

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The victims included Boris and Sofia Gurman, a couple in their 60s shot while attempting to disarm the gunmen, and 10-year-old Matilda, whose parents urged the community to remember her name during vigils. The attack has sparked a broader national discussion about antisemitism, gun control, and the adequacy of police protections at public events.

Investigations revealed that Naveed Akram had come under the attention of Australian security services in 2019. The shooters also travelled to the Philippines in November, prompting authorities to examine possible connections with militant groups in the region, although no direct links were confirmed.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese pledged strict government action to combat antisemitism and strengthen gun laws, promising the most comprehensive reforms since the 1996 Port Arthur massacre. The tragedy has left Australia grappling with grief, security concerns, and a renewed focus on preventing extremist violence.

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