Australian PM Orders Review of Security Agencies After Bondi Attack

Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has initiated a comprehensive review of the country’s police and intelligence services following a tragic mass shooting that left 15 people dead at a Jewish festival on Bondi Beach. The attack occurred on December 14, 2023, when two gunmen opened fire on a crowded Hanukkah celebration, an act allegedly motivated by Islamic State ideology.

The assailants, a father and son duo, have been identified as Sajid Akram, 50, who was killed by police during the incident, and his 24-year-old son Naveed Akram, who was born in Australia and remains hospitalized under police custody. Naveed faces multiple charges, including terrorism and 15 counts of murder.

Government Response and Security Review

In light of the attack, Prime Minister Albanese stated that his government will assess whether the police and intelligence agencies possess the necessary powers and resources to ensure the safety of Australians. He emphasized the need to adapt to a rapidly evolving security environment, saying, “The ISIS-inspired atrocity last Sunday reinforces the rapidly changing security environment in our nation.”

Albanese pointed out that the review will focus on the effectiveness of existing systems, particularly looking back at assessments made in 2019 regarding Naveed Akram. He was previously investigated by the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) for potential radicalization but was not deemed a threat at that time. His father, Sajid, was also questioned during the investigation.

Albanese remarked on the shocking nature of the attack, stating, “It is also the case that they were not seen to be persons of interest, and that is why this is such a shocking event.” This comment highlights the unexpected nature of the incident, given that the suspects had not previously raised alarms within security services.

Details of the Attack and Ongoing Investigations

The Akram family had recently returned to Sydney from a four-week trip to the southern Philippines, a detail that is now under scrutiny by law enforcement agencies in both Australia and the Philippines. The investigation into their travels may provide further insights into their radicalization and motivations.

In the wake of this incident, Prime Minister Albanese underscored the importance of examining the operational frameworks of Australia’s security agencies. He noted, “We need to look back at what happened in 2019 when this person was looked at, the assessment that was made,” indicating a desire for a thorough understanding of past evaluations and their implications for future safety.

This mass shooting marks a significant moment in Australia’s recent history, prompting national discussions regarding security measures and the capacity of intelligence agencies to adapt to new threats. As investigations continue, the government aims to bolster public safety and ensure that such an atrocity does not occur again.