What's happened
Naveed Akram, 24, appeared in court remotely from Goulburn prison, facing 59 charges including murder and terrorism related to the December attack at Bondi Beach that killed 15 people. His father was shot dead during the incident. The case is scheduled to return in April.
What's behind the headline?
The court proceedings reveal a deliberate and planned attack, with police uncovering evidence of prior reconnaissance and firearms training. The involvement of the suspect's father, who was killed during the incident, underscores the familial nature of the attack. The suppression orders indicate an effort to protect victims' identities, but the case highlights ongoing concerns about domestic terrorism motivated by anti-Semitism. The legal process is expected to extend into 2027, reflecting the complexity of the case. This attack will likely intensify security measures around Jewish communities and public events, and it underscores the persistent threat of domestic extremism in Australia.
What the papers say
The Independent reports that Naveed Akram appeared via video link, with his lawyer stating he is 'as well as can be expected' in supermax prison. Sky News emphasizes the charges, including 15 counts of murder and 40 of wounding with intent. SBS highlights the details of the attack, including the use of pipe bombs and the involvement of ISIS flags. All sources agree on the severity of the incident and the ongoing legal proceedings, with the case expected to return to court in April and possibly into 2027.
How we got here
The December 14 attack at Bondi Beach targeted a Jewish Hanukkah celebration, involving gunfire and pipe bombs. Police allege Naveed and his father Sajid Akram conducted reconnaissance and firearms training beforehand. Sajid was shot dead by police at the scene. The attack is Australia's deadliest terror incident since 1996, with the perpetrators reportedly motivated by anti-Semitic motives.
Go deeper
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Bondi Beach () is a beach and the surrounding suburb in Sydney, Australia. Bondi Beach is located 7 kilometres (4 miles) east of the Sydney central business district, in the local government area of Waverley Council, in the Eastern Suburbs. In the 2021...