Naveed Akram, the only surviving suspect in the deadly Bondi Beach shooting, has been formally charged with 59 criminal offences, including 15 counts of murder and one charge of committing a terrorist act, according to New South Wales Police.
The attack, which took place on Sunday during a Hanukkah celebration, left 15 people dead and dozens injured, making it Australia’s deadliest mass shooting since 1996.
Details of the Charges
Police confirmed that Akram is also facing:
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40 charges of causing grievous bodily harm with intent to murder
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One charge related to displaying a banned terrorist organisation symbol
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Multiple additional serious criminal offences
Akram was critically wounded during the incident and appeared at his first court hearing from his hospital bed. Authorities said the case has now been adjourned until April 2026.
Father Killed During Police Exchange
Akram’s father, Sajid Akram (50), was shot dead during an exchange of gunfire with police at the scene. Investigators confirmed that both father and son were involved in the incident.
Earlier this week, police said they were waiting for the suspect’s medication to wear off before conducting a formal interrogation.
“For fairness and due process, he must clearly understand what is happening,” said NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon.
Attack Declared a Terrorist Incident
Authorities have officially classified the Bondi shooting as a terrorist attack.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated that early investigations suggest the violence was inspired by Islamic State (IS) ideology.
The attack specifically targeted Australia’s Jewish community, sending shockwaves across the country and internationally.
Victims and Casualties
Among those killed were:
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Two rabbis
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A Holocaust survivor
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A 10-year-old girl named Matilda
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Boris and Sofia Gurman, a couple who were filmed trying to stop one of the attackers
In total, 27 people were hospitalised, including two police officers.
One officer, 22-year-old Jack Hibbert, has lost sight in one eye and faces a long recovery.
As of Wednesday evening:
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17 victims remain in hospital
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One person is in critical condition
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Four others are listed as critical but stable
International Travel Under Investigation
Police revealed that Naveed and Sajid Akram travelled to the Philippines in November, staying from 1 November to 28 November.
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Naveed Akram entered using an Australian passport
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Sajid Akram used an Indian passport
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Their final destination was Davao City, according to Philippine immigration officials
Indian authorities confirmed Sajid Akram was originally from Hyderabad, though he had limited contact with family there.
Funerals and Community Mourning
Thousands gathered to mourn Rabbi Eli Schlanger, a British-born rabbi who helped organise the Hanukkah event and was among the victims.
Speaking at the funeral, Rabbi Levi Wolff described the loss as heartbreaking:
“Eli was taken from us while spreading love, joy, and care. His life and sacrifice will never be forgotten.”
Funerals for other victims, including young Matilda, are scheduled over the coming days.
Political Response and Antisemitism Concerns
Prime Minister Albanese did not attend the first funeral, saying he would attend any service he was formally invited to.
He also responded to criticism over antisemitism, stating that his government has:
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Appointed Australia’s first antisemitism envoy
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Strengthened hate speech laws
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Increased funding for Jewish institutions and social cohesion programs
Floral Tributes at Bondi Beach
A large memorial and floral tribute has been set up near Bondi Beach, where mourners continue to gather to honor the victims of one of the darkest days in Australia’s modern history.
