Australian authorities have released chilling new details about the alleged terrorist attack that shook Bondi in December, as outlined in court documents made public on Monday.
Explosives and a Video Manifesto
The police fact sheet alleges that Naveed Akram, 24, and his 50-year-old father, Sajid Akram, meticulously planned the assault on a Hanukah celebration for many months prior to the 14 December attack. Investigators claim the pair threw three pipe bombs and a so-called 'tennis ball bomb' towards the crowd before opening fire. Although the devices failed to detonate, police assert they were viable improvised explosives.
Further evidence cited includes a video, recorded in October and found on the accused's phone. The document states it shows Naveed and his father seated before an Islamic State flag. Naveed Akram is alleged to have recited a passage from the Qur'an in Arabic while surrounded by four long-arm firearms. The pair then reportedly delivered statements in English, explaining their motives for the planned Bondi attack and condemning the actions of 'Zionists'.
Months of Planning and Training
Police allege the planning was extensive. Another clip from October appears to show the father and son training with firearms in a rural setting, believed to be in New South Wales. The footage allegedly depicts them firing shotguns and moving tactically.
The court documents frame the attack as a joint criminal enterprise with the goal of causing death to further an extremist cause. The alleged aim was to promote religiously motivated violent extremism aligned with Islamic State.
Charges and Aftermath
Naveed Akram faces charges for murdering 15 people and injuring dozens more during the shooting. His father, Sajid Akram, identified as the second alleged shooter, died at the scene. The release of the detailed police fact sheet followed an application by lawyers representing media organisations.
The revelations provide a stark insight into the alleged preparation and ideological drive behind one of Australia's most devastating recent attacks, underscoring the ongoing challenges faced by security services.
