At least twelve people have been killed in a mass shooting today at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia. Eyewitness accounts say that around 50 rounds of bullets were fired by two gunmen during a Jewish religious event. New South Wales Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon has announced that the shooting was a “terrorist incident.” One of the gunmen was killed in retaliatory fire.
The Australian Broadcasting Corporation reported that the second shooter is in police custody, and at least 29 people have been shot, along with two police officers. All of the injured are in surgery now.
The gunman in custody has been identified as Naveed Akram from Bonnyrigg in Sydney's south-west. Akram’s home in Bonnyrigg is being raided by the police, ABC reported. Police say they have found suspected homemade explosive devices at the site, and the bomb squad is safely handling the situation. Reports of a shooting came in around 6:47 PM (AET) on Sunday at Archer Park, a grassy area just north of the Bondi Pavilion.
Also Read | Who is Naveed Akram? What we know about the Bondi Beach shooting suspect
Australian Prime Minister issues statement
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese issued a statement expressing shock at the attack. The statement from the Prime Minister’s office said, “The scenes in Bondi are shocking and distressing. Police and emergency responders are on the ground working to save lives. My thoughts are with every person affected. I have just spoken to the AFP Commissioner and with the NSW Premier. We are working with the NSW Police and will provide further updates as more information is confirmed. I urge people in the vicinity to follow information from the NSW Police.”
PM Modi condemns attack
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to X to condemn the ghastly attack. He wrote, "Strongly condemn the ghastly terrorist attack carried out today at Bondi Beach, Australia, targeting people celebrating the first day of the Jewish festival of Hanukkah. On behalf of the people of India, I extend my sincere condolences to the families who lost their loved ones. We stand in solidarity with the people of Australia in this hour of grief. India has zero tolerance towards terrorism and supports the fight against all forms and manifestations of terrorism."
New South Wales Premier promises “massive investigation”
New South Wales Premier Chris Minns wrote on X, "This cowardly act of terrifying violence is shocking and painful to see, and represents some of our worst fears of terrorism in Sydney." He added, "I can assure the community it will be met with a massive and comprehensive police and public order response. It is the responsibility of all Australians to wrap our arms around Australia’s Jewish community and help them through this incredibly difficult period. This is a massive, complex investigation that has only just begun."
