🚨 The normally laid-back Bondi Beach turned into a scene of chaos this evening.
At around 6:40 p.m. local time, at least two armed men opened fire on a crowd celebrating Hanukkah, the Jewish Festival of Lights. New South Wales Premier Chris Minns confirmed 12 people have died, and the state's ambulance service said 16 have been taken to hospital, with several others treated at the scene.
NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon has declared the attack a "terrorist incident." One of the suspected shooters was killed, and a second suspect is in custody. A second gunman is reported among the hospitalized, and at least two police officers have been injured.
Video clips and photos from the beach showed people running for cover and firearms abandoned in the sand 🏖️😨. Authorities say there is no longer an active threat but continue to urge the public to avoid the area.
Police have identified one of the attackers as Naveed Akram from Bonnyrigg in Sydney's south-west. His home is currently being raided as investigators work to piece together motives and possible networks.
The Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the scenes as "shocking," and Premier Minns called the incident "deeply distressing."
As the investigation unfolds, emergency services and law enforcement are working around the clock. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families. 💔🙏
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
