Explosive Devices in Bondi Attack
Australian police have disclosed that the two individuals who carried out the deadly assault at a Hanukkah event on Bondi Beach also attempted to use homemade bombs. According to officials, the attackers, identified as Sajid and Naveed Akram, threw four such devices into the gathering, but none exploded. The items included three pipe bombs and one tennis ball bomb.
Investigation Details
This information came to light following a court order prompted by media inquiries. It was part of the charging documents for Naveed Akram, who faces 59 charges, including 15 counts of murder and one terrorism-related offense. His father was fatally shot by police during the incident.
An additional explosive device was located in a vehicle registered to Naveed near the attack site.
Planning and Evidence
Police stated that the pair "meticulously planned this terrorist attack for many months." Videos on Naveed's phone documented their preparations, including statements about their motivations for the "Bondi attack" and criticisms of "Zionists."
Authorities noted that the gunmen surveyed the location two days prior to the attack, as seen on CCTV footage showing them walking along a footbridge.
Further evidence from the charging documents includes a video of the men undergoing firearm training. Weapons and bomb-making materials were seized from both the Akram residence and a rented room they used.
Inspiration and Aftermath
Investigators suspect ISIS inspiration, citing Islamic State flags found in Naveed's car and in video backgrounds. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed feeling "the weight of responsibility" for the attack, offering apologies to the Jewish community and the nation.
Among the victims were a ten-year-old child and an eighty-seven-year-old Holocaust survivor who was killed while trying to protect his wife.
