Sydney Bondi Beach Shooting: Naveed Akram Identified as Attacker, Police Raid Residence

At least 12 people were killed and dozens injured in a mass shooting at Sydney's Bondi Beach on Sunday evening, prompting Australian authorities to declare the incident a terrorist attack.

One of the two suspected gunmen has been identified as Naveed Akram, while police continue investigations to establish full details of the attackers and their motives.

Naveed Akram Identified, Police Raid Residence

Australian authorities identified Naveed Akram, a resident of Sydney's south-west, as one of the attackers involved in the Bondi Beach shooting, according to a report by ABC Australia. Following the identification, police carried out a raid at Akram's home in the suburb of Bonnyrigg on Sunday evening.

Officials have not yet confirmed whether Akram was the gunman who was killed during the police operation or the one who survived and remains in custody.

Details of the Bondi Beach Attack

Police said two gunmen armed with automatic rifles opened fire at Sydney's iconic Bondi Beach, which was crowded with visitors during a busy weekend. The shooting occurred shortly after 6.30 pm local time as hundreds of people gathered for the Chanukah by the Sea event, the Sydney Morning Herald reported.

One of the attackers was fatally shot by police at the scene, while the second gunman was wounded and taken into custody in critical condition. Authorities are still working to determine the roles of each suspect.

Explosive Device Found, Terror Probe Launched

Investigators later discovered an explosive device linked to the attack. "We have found an improvised explosive device in a car which is linked to the deceased offender," New South Wales Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon told a news conference, as quoted by the Associated Press.

Lanyon also confirmed that the shooting has been designated a terrorist attack, according to The Guardian. However, police said the specific target of the attack has not yet been established.

Security Measures and Ongoing Investigation

In an official statement, police said several suspicious items recovered from the area are being examined by specialist officers. An exclusion zone has been established around parts of Bondi Beach as forensic teams continue their work.

The Australian Broadcasting Corporation aired footage showing two gunmen dressed in black firing at people from a footbridge near the beach, underscoring the scale and brazenness of the attack. Authorities have urged the public to avoid the area and cooperate with the ongoing investigation.