Australian PM Orders Review After Deadly Bondi Beach Attack

Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced on December 14, 2023, that he has initiated a comprehensive review of the country’s police and intelligence services following a tragic attack at a Jewish festival on Bondi Beach. The incident, which resulted in the deaths of 15 people, involved two gunmen who opened fire during the Hanukkah celebration, reportedly inspired by Islamic State ideology.

The alleged assailants, a father-son duo identified as Sajid Akram, 50, and his 24-year-old son Naveed Akram, are at the center of a growing investigation. Sajid was killed by police during the attack, while Naveed, an Australian citizen, remains hospitalized under police guard and faces multiple charges, including terrorism and 15 counts of murder.

The Prime Minister emphasized the need for a thorough examination of whether Australian security agencies possess the appropriate powers, organizational structures, and information-sharing protocols necessary to safeguard citizens. “The ISIS-inspired atrocity last Sunday reinforces the rapidly changing security environment in our nation,” Albanese stated. He added, “Our security agencies must be in the best position to respond.”

In 2019, Naveed Akram was investigated by the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) for potential radicalization but was deemed not a threat at that time. His father, Sajid, was also questioned during this review but managed to acquire a gun license, permitting him to own six rifles.

In the weeks leading up to the attack, the Akram family returned to Sydney from a month-long trip to the southern Philippines, which is now under investigation by both Australian and Philippine authorities. This trip has raised concerns and is part of the ongoing inquiry into their radicalization. Albanese acknowledged this issue, stating, “We need to examine exactly the way that systems work. We need to look back at what happened in 2019 when this person was looked at, the assessment that was made.”

The Prime Minister’s remarks reflect a growing urgency to reform Australia’s intelligence and security frameworks. In separate interviews, he reiterated that while the Akram family was not previously flagged as persons of interest, the shocking nature of the attack has highlighted critical gaps in the current system.

As investigations continue, the Australian public remains on edge, grappling with the implications of this heinous act. The government’s response may shape future policies regarding national security and community safety.