Naveed Akram, the surviving suspect in Sunday's mass shooting at Bondi Beach in Sydney, has been charged with 59 offences, including 15 counts of murder and one of committing a terrorist act, according to the New South Wales police.
Akram, 24, was critically injured during the incident, while his father Sajid Akram, 50, was killed in an exchange of fire with police at the scene. The assault left 15 individuals dead and many more injured, and it specifically targeted Australia's Jewish community at an event celebrating the first night of Hanukkah. This incident marks Australia’s deadliest shooting since 1996.
Alongside the murder charges, Akram faces 40 counts of causing grievous bodily harm with intent to murder and one charge of displaying symbols associated with a prohibited terrorist organization. He attended his first hearing from his hospital bedside, and the court has adjourned the case until April 2026.
As of Wednesday evening local time, 17 individuals remain hospitalized, with one in critical condition. New South Wales Police have categorized the event as a terrorist incident, stating that it appears to be driven by motives linked to the Islamic State group.
In related developments, it was revealed that Naveed and Sajid Akram had traveled to the Philippines in November. They arrived in the country using different passports: Naveed with an Australian passport and Sajid with an Indian passport. Sajid Akram hailed from Hyderabad but had little contact with family there.
The attack has resulted in widespread grief, as among the deceased were two rabbis, a Holocaust survivor, and a ten-year-old girl. Other victims included a couple who bravely confronted one of the assailants during the shooting. Funerals for the victims are anticipated in the upcoming days, with emphasis on remembering those lost during this tragic event.
