A man allegedly involved in the Sydney Bondi Beach shooting during a Jewish Hanukkah celebration has been charged with 59 counts, including murder and terrorism. The attack killed 15 people and shocked Australia, raising fears of anti-Semitism and violent extremism.
Police said the alleged attackers were a father and son. Fifty-year-old Sajid Akram was shot dead at the scene by police. His 24-year-old son, Naveed Akram, survived a gunshot and came out of a coma on Tuesday.
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Authorities confirmed Sajid Akram was from Hyderabad, India. Police noted that his family was reportedly unaware of his extremist views. The investigation revealed the attack appeared motivated by religious extremism.
The charges against Naveed Akram include 15 counts of murder, 40 counts of grievous bodily harm with intent to kill, one terrorism charge, and other related offenses. Police stated that the actions endangered lives and spread fear within the community.
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Early evidence suggests the attack was inspired by ISIS, a listed terrorist organization in Australia. Court documents filed on Wednesday officially named Naveed Akram as the accused, who is currently under heavy police supervision in a Sydney hospital.