Profiles of Sajid and Naveed Akram in Bondi Attack

Australian authorities have identified the perpetrators of the deadly Bondi Beach terror attack as a father-son duo, Sajid Akram and Naveed Akram. The shooting, described as the worst mass attack Australia has seen in decades, targeted a Jewish community gathering celebrating the first night of Hanukkah near Sydney’s Bondi Beach, leaving at least 15 people dead.

Background of Sajid Akram

Sajid Akram, aged 50, was shot dead by police at the scene of the attack. He was a fruit seller by profession and lived with his family in the Bonnyrigg area of Sydney. According to New South Wales Police, Sajid held a valid firearms licence since 2015 and was legally entitled to own long-arm firearms under a Category AB licence. He was reportedly a member of a gun club and met all eligibility criteria required under the state’s Firearms Act. Police confirmed that multiple registered firearms belonging to him were used in the attack.

Profile of Naveed Akram

Naveed Akram, 24, Sajid’s son, was critically injured during the police response and remains hospitalised under guard, though his condition is described as stable. He was reportedly unemployed at the time of the incident, having recently lost work as a bricklayer. Media reports indicate that he had studied at Al-Murad Institute in New South Wales, which focuses on teaching Arabic and Quranic studies, and had also attended universities in Australia and Pakistan. Investigators have stated that Naveed is likely to face criminal charges once medically fit.

Events Leading to the Attack

The attack took place at around 6.47 pm local time during an annual Jewish community event known as “Chanukah by the Sea.” Police later recovered an improvised explosive device from a vehicle linked to the attackers, confirming the premeditated nature of the assault. Initial concerns about additional attackers were dismissed after investigations confirmed only the father and son were involved.

What to Note for Exams?

• The Bondi Beach attack occurred during a Hanukkah celebration in Sydney.
• Sajid Akram held a valid Category AB firearms licence.
• Naveed Akram survived the attack and is likely to face criminal charges.
• An improvised explosive device was found in a vehicle linked to the attackers.

Aftermath and Official Response

The attack has reignited debate in Australia over gun laws, intelligence assessment and the rise of antisemitism. New South Wales Premier Chris Minns said legislative reforms were likely and stressed zero tolerance for antisemitism in any form. Authorities continue to investigate possible radicalisation pathways while reviewing security measures for public and religious gatherings across the country.