Australian authorities have charged Naveed Akram with 59 criminal offences, including 15 counts of murder, following the deadly Bondi Beach shooting that shocked the nation and targeted the Jewish community.
The incident, which took place during a Hanukkah celebration, is now officially classified as a terrorist attack by New South Wales Police.
Charges Filed Against Surviving Suspect
Police confirmed that Naveed Akram, the only surviving attacker, faces:
-
15 counts of murder
-
40 charges of causing grievous bodily harm with intent to kill
-
1 charge of committing a terrorist act
-
1 charge for publicly displaying a prohibited terrorist organisation symbol
Akram was critically injured during the attack and appeared in court for the first time from his hospital bed. Authorities said the case has been adjourned until April 2026.
Father Killed in Police Gunfire
Akram’s father, Sajid Akram (50), was killed during a gun battle with police at the scene. Officials confirmed he was shot dead while officers responded to the attack.
Investigators say 15 people lost their lives, while dozens more were injured, making it Australia’s deadliest mass shooting since 1996.
Attack Linked to Extremist Ideology
Police have formally declared the shooting a terrorist incident.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said early findings suggest the attack was inspired by Islamic State ideology.
NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon stated that investigators are waiting for Akram’s medication to wear off before beginning formal questioning, ensuring the process is fair and lawful.
Victims Include Rabbis, Child, and Holocaust Survivor
Among those killed were:
-
Two rabbis
-
A Holocaust survivor
-
A 10-year-old girl, identified by her family as Matilda
-
Boris and Sofia Gurman, a couple who were filmed bravely trying to stop one of the attackers
In total, 27 injured victims were taken to hospital, including two police officers.
One officer, 22-year-old Jack Hibbert, has lost vision in one eye and faces a long recovery, according to his family.
Suspects’ International Travel Under Scrutiny
Authorities revealed that Naveed and Sajid Akram travelled to the Philippines in November, staying from November 1 to November 28, with Davao City as their final destination.
-
Naveed Akram travelled on an Australian passport
-
Sajid Akram used an Indian passport
Indian police confirmed Sajid Akram was originally from Hyderabad, though he had limited contact with family there.
Nation Mourns as Funerals Begin
Thousands gathered in Sydney to attend the first funeral service, held for British-born Rabbi Eli Schlanger, who helped organise the Hanukkah event.
Rabbi Levi Wolff, speaking at the service, called the loss “unspeakable”, describing Schlanger as a man devoted to love, faith, and service.
Additional funerals are expected in the coming days, including one for Matilda, the youngest victim.
PM Faces Criticism Over Antisemitism Response
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese did not attend the first funeral, saying he would attend events if invited. He has faced criticism from the Jewish community over antisemitism concerns.
In response, Albanese highlighted government actions such as:
-
Appointing Australia’s first antisemitism envoy
-
Strengthening hate speech laws
-
Increasing funding for Jewish institutions and community safety
Bondi Attack Leaves Lasting Impact
As of Wednesday evening, 17 people remain hospitalized, with several in critical condition. A floral memorial now stands at Bondi Beach as the nation continues to mourn.
The tragedy has reignited national debate over terrorism, extremism, and community safety in Australia.
