BREAKING: New allegations reveal that the gunmen behind the Bondi Beach massacre attempted to detonate multiple shrapnel-filled bombs during a Jewish Hanukkah celebration on December 14, 2023. In a shocking twist, none of the bombs detonated, despite their design being deemed “viable” by police.
Authorities confirm that surviving shooter Naveed Akram, 24, now faces a staggering 59 charges, including committing a terrorist act and 15 counts of murder. Alongside his deceased father, Sajid Akram, 50, they are accused of executing Australia’s deadliest mass shooting since 1996, targeting innocent victims during the festival of lights at Bondi Beach.
Police released critical details about the attack, including evidence of the Akrams’ meticulous planning. Surveillance footage shows the men transporting weapons in a 24-year-old silver Hyundai Elantra just hours before the attack. They were seen loading two shotguns, a Beretta rifle, five homemade bombs, and two ISIS flags wrapped in blankets.
After arriving at Bondi Beach around 5 PM, the Akrams launched their assault by throwing three pipe bombs filled with steel ball bearings and a “tennis ball bomb” into the crowd. Fortunately, their explosives failed to detonate, allowing the community to escape further tragedy.
Police investigations unveiled that the Akrams had conducted reconnaissance of the area two days prior to the attack, indicating a well-coordinated plan. Furthermore, they discovered videos left behind by the shooters, which express their commitment to violent extremism and anti-Semitic motivations.
In an effort to protect survivors, Deputy Chief Magistrate Michael Antrum issued a court order suppressing the identities of 25 survivors. This measure enables them to decide when and how to share their experiences publicly, joining others like Arsen Ostrovsky and hero tobacconist Ahmed Al Ahmed, who bravely intervened during the attack.
Naveed Akram remains in custody, with his next court appearance scheduled for April 2024. As authorities continue to investigate, the community seeks answers and healing in the aftermath of this horrific incident.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
