A clear new image of Sajid Akram, the alleged gunman responsible for the deadly terror attack at Bondi Beach, Sydney, has been released, revealing the face behind the tragedy that left 15 dead and more than 40 injured. The 50-year-old opened fire during a Jewish Hanukkah celebration alongside his son, Naveed, before being fatally shot by police at the scene.
In the wake of the attack, Sajid Akram’s family has spoken publicly, emphasizing their lack of awareness regarding his radicalization. They stated they had “no idea” about his extremist mindset or the factors that may have influenced his transformation, according to reports from The Mirror.
Authorities indicate the attack was motivated by ISIS-inspired terrorism. Naveed Akram, aged 24, has been charged with 59 offenses including 15 counts of murder following his recovery from a coma.
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Originating from Hyderabad, India, a major technology and pharmaceutical center, Sajid completed a Bachelor of Commerce before moving to Australia in 1998 on a student visa. After marrying Venera, Naveed’s mother, he adjusted his visa status to a partner visa in 2001. He made six trips back to India over the years, though notably did not return in 2017 for his father’s funeral. Indian police confirm that the family was unaware of his extremist views and that his radicalization seems unrelated to local or regional influences in Telangana.
His most recent visit to India was in 2022, reportedly for family or property matters. Over time, his contact with relatives reportedly became more infrequent.
The photograph circulated widely through Australian media outlets was released just a week after the devastating attack. Meanwhile, Australian authorities are investigating a recent trip the father and son made to the Philippines on November 1, though the purpose remains unclear.
This new information sheds light on Sajid Akram’s background and growing concerns over how such radicalization can develop unnoticed within family circles.