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- Bondi Beach alleged assailant charged with 59 counts (abcnews.go.com)
Man Charged with Terrorism and Murder in Bondi Beach Hanukkah Attack
Sydney, Australia – Naveed Akram, 24, has been formally charged with committing a terrorist act, 15 counts of murder, and dozens of other offenses in connection with the horrific shooting at a Hanukkah gathering at Bondi Beach. The New South Wales Police announced the charges on Wednesday, detailing a total of 59 offenses against Akram.
The charges against Akram include 40 counts of causing wounding or grievous bodily harm with intent to murder, discharging a firearm with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, displaying a prohibited terrorist organization’s symbol, and placing an explosion in or near a building with intent to cause harm.
Akram, who remains hospitalized under police guard, made a court appearance via video on Wednesday.
Authorities allege that Akram, alongside his father, Sajid Akram, 50, opened fire on attendees at the Bondi Beach event on Sunday. The attack tragically claimed 15 lives and left over 40 individuals injured. Sajid Akram was reportedly shot and killed by police at the scene.
Investigators stated that Naveed Akram allegedly carried out the shooting to “advance a religious cause and cause fear in the community.” Early indications suggest the attack was “inspired by ISIS,” which is recognized as a terrorist organization in Australia.
The Bondi Beach massacre is now reportedly being exploited for ISIS propaganda, according to SITE Intelligence, an organization that tracks extremist activities.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese revealed on Tuesday that the father and son had traveled to the Philippines in the weeks leading up to the attack, suggesting a potential inspiration from ISIS. “It would appear that there is evidence that this was inspired by a terrorist organization, by ISIS,” Albanese stated at a press conference.
As of Wednesday, 20 of those injured in the attack are still receiving medical care in Sydney hospitals, including two police officers. Prime Minister Albanese expressed profound gratitude to the medical professionals for their tireless efforts, stating on social media, “Doctors.
Nurses. Surgeons.
Radiologists. Pathologists.
And so many more. We’ve seen humanity at its very best, as you’ve worked tirelessly to save lives.
We can’t thank you enough.”
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- Bondi Beach alleged assailant charged with 59 counts (abcnews.go.com)