Bondi Beach Shooting: Chilling Details Reveal Months of Meticulous Terror Planning

A deadly attack shattered the peace at Sydney’s Bondi Beach. It happened on December 14 during a Jewish holiday gathering. Shooters opened fire, killing 15 people and injuring many others.

Rabbi Yossi Friedman speaks to people gathering at a flower memorial by the Bondi Pavilion at Bondi Beach on Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2025, following Sunday’s shooting in Sydney, Australia. (AP Photo/Mark Baker)

New court documents reveal the attack was not a spontaneous act. Police state the perpetrators planned this terrorist operation for many months. The investigation uncovered firearms training and homemade bombs.

Investigation Uncovers Bombs, Training, and ISIS-Inspired Video

Authorities described a horrifyingly prepared assault. The attackers, Sajid Akram and his son Naveed, rented a room weeks prior. They left that room early on the day of the shooting armed with multiple guns and explosives.

Police identified several improvised explosive devices. These included aluminum pipe bombs filled with gunpowder and ball bearings. A tennis ball bomb was also thrown into the crowd but failed to detonate.

A critical piece of evidence was found on a phone. According to AP, a video shows the father and son expressing their views. Police say the ISIS-inspired video summarized their justification for the attack.

Broader Impact as Australia Confirms Its Deadliest Shooting in Decades

The Bondi Beach attack marks Australia’s worst mass shooting since 1996. It has profoundly shaken the community and raised urgent security questions. The antisemitic nature of the attack, targeting a Hanukkah event, has drawn global condemnation.

Naveed Akram now faces 59 criminal charges. These include 15 counts of murder and one count of committing a terrorist act. The case highlights ongoing challenges in monitoring potential threats.

The tragedy has reignited national debates on gun laws and counter-terrorism. Sajid Akram legally owned six firearms, exceeding a proposed new limit. This detail is now part of a larger conversation on prevention.

The Bondi Beach shooting investigation reveals a complex, premeditated terror plot. Authorities continue to piece together the full timeline of the attackers’ preparation. The community seeks healing as legal proceedings begin.

Thought you’d like to know

What did police find in the attackers’ car?

Police found the largest IED in the trunk of the son’s car. The car was also left draped with two homemade Islamic State flags. This was a key piece of evidence for the terrorism charges.

How were the attackers stopped?

Police officers responded to the scene and engaged the gunmen. They wounded Naveed Akram at the beach. His father, Sajid Akram, was killed during the confrontation.

Was there any warning before the Bondi Beach attack?

Police allege there was significant planning, including tactical firearms training captured on video months prior. However, no specific public warning was issued before the event began.

What was the event being held at Bondi Beach?

Hundreds had gathered to celebrate the beginning of Hanukkah, the Jewish Festival of Lights. It was a public community event marking the start of the eight-day holiday.

How many explosive devices were involved?

Authorities identified three aluminum pipe bombs and a tennis ball bomb. CCTV footage suggested the men were carrying five IEDs in total when they left their rented room.