Sydney: One of the alleged attackers in the deadly Bondi Beach shooting has regained consciousness in hospital, giving investigators hope of learning more about the planning and motive behind one of Australia’s worst acts of mass violence in decades.
Police confirmed that Naveed Akram, 24, woke from a coma on Monday after being critically injured during the police response to the attack. He remains under tight security in a Sydney hospital and is not yet fit for questioning, officials said. Doctors are closely monitoring his condition before investigators can formally interview him.
The attack took place on Sunday evening during a Jewish Hanukkah gathering at Bondi Beach, a popular public area in Sydney. Fifteen people were killed and many others were injured when gunmen opened fire on the crowd, sending shockwaves across Australia and drawing condemnation from leaders around the world.
Authorities say Naveed Akram was involved in the attack along with his father, Sajid Akram, who was shot dead by police at the scene. Investigators have described the pair as acting together, and early evidence has led police to treat the incident as an act of terrorism.
Security agencies have revealed that items linked to extremist ideology were found during searches connected to the suspects. Officials say the investigation is focusing on whether the attackers were inspired by international terrorist groups, although they have cautioned that inquiries are still ongoing and conclusions have not yet been finalised.
Adding an international dimension to the case, authorities confirmed that the father and son had travelled to the Philippines weeks before the attack. Philippine officials have acknowledged the visit and are cooperating with Australian investigators to determine the purpose of the trip and whether the suspects had contact with extremist networks while abroad.
Australian intelligence sources also confirmed that Naveed Akram had come to the attention of security agencies several years ago during routine assessments, but he was not considered an immediate threat at that time.
Meanwhile, police continue to work on identifying victims and supporting families affected by the tragedy. Several people remain in hospital, some in serious condition. Community vigils and memorial services have been held across Sydney and other cities, with faith leaders and political figures calling for unity and calm.
The attack has reignited debate over public safety, extremism and gun control in Australia. Federal and state leaders have promised a thorough review of security measures and laws to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Investigators say the case could enter a crucial phase once Naveed Akram is medically stable enough to be questioned. For now, authorities stress that the priority remains the recovery of the injured, support for grieving families, and a careful, fact based investigation into what led to the violence at Bondi Beach.