The investigation into the Sydney Bondi Beach shooting, now officially declared a terrorist attack, has identified Naveed Akram, a 24-year-old from Lahore, Pakistan, as a central figure. Akram is believed to be one of the two gunmen involved.
Social media and law enforcement sources indicate Akram was a student at Sydney’s al-Murad Institute. Photos have emerged showing him in a Pakistan cricket jersey, likely from an official likeness. Previous university studies in both Pakistan and Australia are also reported.
Authorities have confirmed that Akram was among the two attackers responsible for the mass shooting at Bondi Beach, which claimed at least 12 lives and left many injured. The police have reported that one assailant was killed during the confrontation, while the other sustained critical injuries and was taken to the hospital.
Akram’s residence in Bonnyrigg, Sydney, was searched by police on Sunday evening as part of the ongoing inquiry. New South Wales Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon confirmed the attack’s terrorist classification. The gunmen opened fire around 6:30 p.m., as hundreds gathered for a Hanukkah event.
Chaos erupted on the crowded beach, with eyewitnesses describing scenes of terror as the gunfire began. Families and tourists present scrambled for safety amidst the sudden violence. The attack occurred on the first evening of the Jewish festival of Hanukkah.