New Delhi | December 17, 2025:
Australian authorities have formally charged 24-year-old Naveed Akram in connection with the deadly Bondi Beach mass shooting, one of the worst terror attacks in the country’s recent history. The accused now faces 59 criminal charges, including terrorism and 15 counts of murder, after the attack targeted a Jewish Hanukkah celebration in Sydney.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called the incident a “targeted act of antisemitic terrorism”, stressing that the attack was driven by hate and extremist ideology.
Charges Filed After Accused Regains Consciousness
Police confirmed that charges were laid on Wednesday afternoon after Naveed Akram regained consciousness in a Sydney hospital. He had remained in a coma since Sunday night after being injured during the police operation.
During the same incident, his father, 50-year-old Sajid Akram, was shot dead by police at the scene. Authorities believe the father and son acted together in the attack.
Breakdown of the 59 Criminal Charges
According to the New South Wales Police, the charges against Naveed Akram include:
- 15 counts of murder
- Committing a terrorist act
- 40 counts of wounding with intent to murder
- Placing an explosive near a building with intent to cause harm
- Public display of a prohibited terrorist symbol
- Discharging a firearm with intent to cause grievous bodily harm
The death toll stands at 16, including the older gunman. Victims ranged from a 10-year-old child to an 87-year-old Holocaust survivor. As of Wednesday, 20 injured victims remain hospitalized, with five in critical condition.
Investigation Reveals ISIS-Inspired Radicalisation
Australian intelligence agencies have confirmed that both attackers were influenced by ISIS ideology.
Key findings from the investigation include:
- Two homemade ISIS flags recovered from Naveed Akram’s vehicle
- Improvised explosive devices (IEDs) found during forensic searches
- Evidence linking the suspects to extremist online networks
Authorities are also examining a November 2025 trip to the Philippines, where the pair reportedly travelled to Davao. Security sources believe they may have received basic military-style training during this visit.
While Naveed Akram is an Australian citizen, his father Sajid Akram was an Indian national who had lived in Australia since 1998.
Heroism Amid Chaos: Bystander Stops Gunman
Amid the horror, one act of bravery stood out. Ahmed al-Ahmed, a 43-year-old local shop owner, was caught on video tackling and disarming the older gunman, preventing further loss of life.
Prime Minister Albanese personally visited him in hospital and praised his courage, saying:
“He represents the very best of Australia.”
A public crowdfunding campaign for al-Ahmed has already raised over AUD 1.3 million, reflecting nationwide gratitude.
Political Fallout and National Response
The Bondi Beach attack is now Australia’s deadliest mass shooting since the 1996 Port Arthur massacre.
In response, the federal government has announced:
- Tighter national gun laws
- Closure of loopholes that allowed legal ownership of multiple firearms
- Increased security at Jewish institutions nationwide
Vigils continue across Australia as the country mourns the victims and confronts a worrying rise in antisemitic incidents.
Prime Minister Albanese stated firmly:
“We will not allow hatred to divide our nation. That is exactly what terrorism seeks to do.”
Conclusion
The Bondi Beach tragedy has shaken Australia at its core. With terrorism charges now formally laid, authorities say the legal process will move swiftly. The case also reignites global conversations around extremism, antisemitism, gun control, and community safety in democratic societies.
