Sydney Hanukkah Shooting Declared Terror Attack; Father–Son Duo Identified as Gunmen
Australian authorities have identified the two gunmen behind the deadly shooting at a Hanukkah event in Sydney as a father and son, aged 50 and 24. New South Wales Police confirmed that the attack, which targeted members of the city’s Jewish community, has been officially declared a terrorist act and that no additional attackers were involved.
According to officials, at least 15 people were killed and more than 40 others injured in the shooting. The incident occurred during Hanukkah celebrations, sending shockwaves across Australia and drawing condemnation from leaders worldwide. Police described it as one of the deadliest anti-Semitic attacks in the country’s history.
New South Wales Police Commissioner Mel Lanyon said at a press conference that key breakthroughs were made overnight, enabling investigators to identify the attackers and the weapons used. He also confirmed that two explosive devices were discovered near the crime scene and were safely secured by bomb disposal teams.
The accused have been identified as Sajid Akram (50) and his son Naveed Akram (24). Police said the pair allegedly opened indiscriminate fire with rifles from a bridge towards a crowded beach area. Sajid Akram was killed in a police encounter, while Naveed Akram sustained critical injuries and is currently hospitalised under police guard.
Following the attack, Naveed Akram’s mother, Verena Akram, expressed disbelief over her son’s alleged involvement. Speaking to media during a police raid at the family’s home in Sydney’s Bonnyrigg area, she described him as “a good boy” and said he did not drink, smoke, or mix with bad company. She claimed he had told her just hours before the incident that he was fishing and scuba diving with his father, and that the family believed they were holidaying in Jervis Bay.
Police sealed off the Bonnyrigg neighbourhood during searches of the family residence. Reports indicated tensions at the scene, with some individuals attempting to obstruct police operations, including the alleged manhandling of a female officer.
Investigators are also probing possible international links behind the attack. Media reports have pointed to Naveed Akram’s past religious studies at an Islamic institute in Australia, raising questions about potential radicalisation. Authorities are examining whether extremist networks or foreign-based terror organisations may have influenced the attackers.
Israeli officials have said they are monitoring the investigation closely, expressing concern that the assault could have been inspired or supported by overseas terrorist groups. Australian security agencies have reiterated that all angles, including possible foreign connections, are being thoroughly examined.
As the investigation continues, authorities have increased security around religious sites nationwide and urged the public to remain vigilant, while reaffirming their commitment to bringing everyone responsible for the attack to justice.
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