New court documents released on Monday allege that the gunmen responsible for the Bondi Beach terrorist attack threw explosives at the start of the incident and had conducted firearms training weeks in advance, shedding light on the meticulous planning behind the December 14 shooting that left 15 people dead.
The documents, made public after a temporary suppression order was lifted, reveal that Naveed Akram, 24, and his father Sajid Akram arrived at the Hanukkah celebration in Archer Park with three pipe bombs and a homemade “tennis ball bomb.” According to police, the pair threw these improvised explosive devices towards the crowd, but none detonated. Shortly after, they used shotguns and a rifle to open fire, killing 14 people at the scene and injuring dozens more; one victim later died in hospital.
Investigators found videos on Naveed Akram’s phone showing the father and son conducting “firearms training” in a rural area of New South Wales in late October. In the footage, they are seen firing shotguns and moving tactically, indicating preparation for the attack. Another video shows the men sitting in front of an Islamic State flag, with Naveed Akram reciting a passage from the Quran in Arabic, followed by statements in English condemning “Zionists” and outlining their motivation for the attack.
CCTV evidence presented in the documents indicates that the Akrams visited Bondi Beach two days before the attack, on December 12, to conduct reconnaissance. They were captured on camera walking along the footbridge from which they later launched the assault, with police alleging this was part of the planning for the terrorist act. On the day of the attack, they were seen leaving their rented accommodation in Campsie with firearms and explosives wrapped in blankets.
Naveed Akram has been charged with 59 offences, including 15 counts of murder and one of committing a terrorist act. His father, Sajid Akram, was shot and killed by police during the incident. The suppression order was revoked to allow the release of the redacted documents, with protections for the identities of survivors, though victims can choose to speak publicly about their experiences.
The attack has sparked widespread calls for enhanced security measures and tougher gun laws in Australia. In response, the New South Wales government recalled parliament to debate new legislation aimed at restricting firearms and protests, though some civil liberties groups have raised concerns about potential overreach. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced an intelligence review to address the evolving security environment.
Community leaders, particularly from the Jewish community, have emphasized the need for greater protection against rising antisemitism. The Bondi area, which experienced another deadly attack just last year, is grappling with the trauma, and memorial events have been held to honor the victims. The case is set to be mentioned again in court in February, where further details may emerge as the legal process continues.
