Two men suspected in the deadly Bondi Beach shooting traveled to the Philippines last month before carrying out the attack, Australian authorities said. One suspect, 50‑year‑old Sajid Akram, used an Indian passport, while his 24‑year‑old son Naveed Akram used his Australian passport for the trip. The father and son stayed in the Philippines from November 1 to November 28, before returning to Sydney.
The mass shooting occurred on December 14, during a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach, a popular area in eastern Sydney. At least 15 people were killed and dozens were injured when the gunmen opened fire on the crowd. Police described the attack as a terrorist act targeting the Jewish community.
Authorities say the attackers were influenced by Islamic State (ISIS) ideology. Investigators recovered ISIS flags and homemade explosive devices from one of the suspect’s vehicles. Sajid Akram was killed by police on the spot, while Naveed Akram is critically injured in hospital.
Australian leaders, including Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, condemned the attack as antisemitic terrorism. Officials have promised to review gun laws, public security, and intelligence procedures following the incident.
In response, Indian security agencies have raised alert levels across major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. Patrols and checks have increased around Jewish establishments, community centers, and cultural venues. Authorities emphasized that no specific threat has been reported in India, but people are advised to stay alert and follow safety guidelines.
The Bondi Beach attack is one of the deadliest acts of terrorism in Sydney in recent years. Police continue to investigate whether the suspects had support from other individuals or networks. The incident has sparked international concern, highlighting the importance of global intelligence cooperation and vigilance.
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