MELBOURNE, Australia — Authorities are facing intense scrutiny over the tragic events at Bondi Beach, where a father and son stand accused of a mass shooting that claimed 15 lives during a Hanukkah celebration. Premier Chris Minns revealed that the father had encountered significant delays in obtaining a gun license due to bureaucratic issues rather than any concerning background that might have prompted further investigation.
Sajid Akram, 50, and his 24-year-old son, Naveed, allegedly targeted members of the Jewish community on December 14, marking one of Australia’s deadliest mass shootings since 1996. In a chilling escalation of violence, the attack has reignited debates on firearm regulations in the country.
During a press briefing, Minns confirmed that Akram applied for his gun license in 2000 but waited three years for it to be approved, far longer than the typical processing time of six to ten weeks. “The latest information we have indicates there was significant bureaucratic confusion regarding gun licenses, not any specific threat posed by the father,” he stated.
Questions linger about how Akram, who shared his home with Naveed—previously investigated for extremist ties—was permitted to own multiple firearms. “I wish we could change the past to prevent this tragedy,” Minns added, acknowledging the need for stronger measures to avert similar incidents in the future.
In response to the shooting, a royal commission will delve into the factors surrounding the attack and the rising wave of antisemitism in Australia, particularly following the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas that has exacerbated tensions.
In light of this tragedy, Minns has urged the New South Wales Parliament to enact what he deems the toughest gun laws in Australia. Proposed legislation would restrict gun ownership to a maximum of four for recreational shooters and up to ten for farmers and competitive shooters, a significant reduction from the current lack of limits, which has allowed individuals to possess extensive weapon collections.
Experts analyzing footage of the attack indicated that Akram and his son may have used semi-automatic weapons designed for rapid fire. The new regulations would prohibit such firearms being accessible to the general public, addressing a critical safety concern.
The proposed reforms would also make citizenship a prerequisite for gun ownership, effectively barring non-citizens like Sajid Akram, an Indian national with permanent residency, from obtaining a license. Additionally, any refusal of a gun license by the government could not be challenged under the new laws.
The National Party, representing rural interests, expressed opposition to these reforms, arguing they are politically motivated rather than being a genuine response to the rise in antisemitism. “We believe there needs to be a focus on addressing the root causes of these societal issues rather than just pushing for more regulations,” a party spokesperson recently stated.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese echoed the call for stricter controls, noting, “The tragedy at Bondi Beach indicates we must reduce the number of firearms in our communities.” He emphasized that there is no justification for any suburban resident to possess multiple high-powered firearms.
In the wake of the rampage, law enforcement revealed that they discovered 3D-printed components for a shotgun speed loader in Sajid Akram’s rented room, suggesting further sophistication in his weaponry. Naveed, who was shot and wounded during the incident, remains in custody facing multiple charges, including 15 counts of murder and additional entries related to terrorism.
As the community mourns, funeral services are being held for victims, including Marika Pogany, 82, who was remembered as a cherished member of Sydney’s Jewish community. Among those injured, 12 individuals remain hospitalized, with several in critical condition, underscoring the tragedy’s profound impact on the community.
Australia’s strict gun policies will likely face intense scrutiny as this investigation unfolds, raising critical questions about the balance between access and safety in an increasingly dangerous world.