SYDNEY: Authorities have filed 19 additional charges against Naveed Akram, the alleged gunman behind Australia's deadliest mass shooting at Bondi Beach last December. The attack, which targeted a Hanukkah celebration and killed 15 people, was inspired by Islamic State ideology.
Akram, 24, initially faced 59 counts, including murder and wounding with intent to murder. His legal representative confirmed in court on Wednesday that the new charges include ten counts of shooting with intent to kill, six counts of discharging a firearm to resist arrest, and three counts of causing grievous bodily harm.
Akram has not yet entered a plea. His father, Sajid Akram, 50, was also accused of participating in the attack but was shot dead by police at the scene.
The incident has triggered significant political fallout in a nation known for strict gun control laws. Lawmakers are pushing for tighter regulations, while the government has launched a formal inquiry into antisemitism and social cohesion, with findings expected by December.
This case underscores rising security concerns and calls for decisive action against hate crimes in Australia.