Sydney woke up to shock and grief after a deadly attack shattered the festive atmosphere at a public Hanukkah gathering at Bondi Beach. What began as a peaceful religious event turned into one of Australia’s deadliest terror incidents in recent years, triggering a large-scale security response and international attention.
As investigators worked through the aftermath, new details emerged about the attackers, their movements across countries, and the ideology believed to have motivated the violence. Authorities in Australia and abroad began piecing together a complex timeline involving travel, residency status, and suspected radicalisation.
The attack has not only reignited concerns over terrorism and antisemitism but has also raised questions about cross-border monitoring, immigration histories, and the global reach of extremist ideologies.
Deadly Attack at Bondi Beach Hanukkah Event
Fifteen people were killed and another 42 were injured when Sajid Akram and his son, Naveed Akram, opened fire with rifles at a Hanukkah event held at Bondi Beach in Sydney. The gathering, attended by families and members of the Jewish community, was targeted in what authorities have described as a deliberate and ideologically motivated act of violence.
Witnesses reported chaos as gunfire erupted, sending people fleeing for safety along the beachfront. Emergency services responded within minutes, while police engaged the attackers in an exchange of fire. Sajid Akram, aged 50, was killed at the scene, while his 24-year-old son Naveed was critically injured and later placed under police guard in hospital.
Philippines Confirms Sajid Akram’s Nationality and Travel
The Philippines’ Bureau of Immigration confirmed that Sajid Akram was an Indian national and an Australian resident at the time of the attack. According to immigration officials, Sajid and his son travelled together to the Philippines in November, just weeks before the shooting in Sydney.
Dana Sandoval, a spokesperson for the Bureau, stated that the pair arrived from Sydney on November 1 and reported Davao as their final destination. Records indicate they departed the Philippines on November 28, travelling from Davao to Manila before returning to Sydney, a detail now central to ongoing investigations.
Police Raids and Expanding Investigation
Following the attack, Australian police conducted searches at a property in Bonnyrigg, believed to be connected to the suspects. The operation was part of a wider investigation aimed at uncovering any additional networks, resources, or planning that may have supported the attack.
Authorities are also examining communications, financial activity, and overseas travel to determine whether the father-and-son duo received external assistance or inspiration. Officials have stressed that every aspect of the suspects’ background is being scrutinised to prevent further threats.
Residency Status and Immigration History in Australia
Australian officials revealed that Sajid Akram arrived in the country in 1998 on a student visa. He later transitioned to a partner visa in 2001, allowing him to remain in Australia as a permanent resident. Over the years, he travelled overseas multiple times using resident return visas, which enable permanent residents to leave and re-enter Australia while retaining their status.
Naveed Akram, his son, was identified as an Australian-born citizen. Officials noted that his multicultural background included Indian and Italian heritage, with his mother reportedly of Italian origin and his father Indian.
Links to Extremist Ideology Under Scrutiny
Australian authorities have stated that the attackers were motivated by beliefs associated with Islamic State ideology. Investigators are focusing on how and when the radicalisation occurred, including whether it was influenced by online propaganda or overseas contacts.
The recent trip to the Philippines, particularly to Davao in Mindanao, has drawn heightened attention. The region has previously been identified as a hotspot for extremist activity, and officials are investigating whether the visit had any connection to the suspects’ ideological development.
International Diplomatic Response
The attack prompted swift diplomatic engagement between Australia and India. Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong spoke with India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, expressing condolences and sharing updates on the investigation. Both leaders emphasised a united stance against terrorism, violence, and antisemitism.
Jaishankar conveyed India’s deepest condolences to the victims and reaffirmed support for Australia during the ongoing probe. Officials on both sides indicated that cooperation would continue as investigators work through the international dimensions of the case.
Community Impact and Ongoing Security Concerns
The Bondi Beach shooting has left the Jewish community and the wider Australian public grappling with grief and fear. Religious leaders and community representatives have called for solidarity, urging authorities to ensure safety at public and religious events.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the attack as an act of terror driven by extremist ideology, stating that Australia would remain firm in confronting violent radicalism. Security measures have since been reviewed nationwide, with increased vigilance around sensitive locations and public gatherings.
Unanswered Questions and the Path Ahead
As investigations continue, authorities are seeking to understand whether warning signs were missed and how similar attacks can be prevented in the future. The case has highlighted challenges faced by law enforcement in tracking radicalisation and monitoring international movements.
For now, the focus remains on justice for the victims, support for the injured and their families, and ensuring that the ideology behind such violence finds no place in a diverse and democratic society.
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About the Author:
Harshit Raj
