Police have verified that one of the suspected individuals involved in the Bondi Beach terror incident possessed a gun license for ‘hunting’. During a press briefing held after the tragic occurrences on December 14, which resulted in 16 fatalities, it was disclosed that Sajid Akram held a category AB license that permitted him to possess the long firearms he utilized.
The assailant, who is the father of 24-year-old Naveed Akram, his working companion, had licenses for six firearms. Premier Chris Minns emphasized the necessity for gun law amendments following the calamity.
The perpetrators targeted a Jewish gathering commemorating the first day of Hanukkah. The South Wales Police confirmed that 38 individuals are still hospitalized, with 15 innocent victims deceased.
The NSW Police Commissioner stated that the 50-year-old gunman met the necessary criteria for the recreational hunting license. Mal Lanyon elaborated, “He was affiliated with a gun club and was eligible, as per the firearms acts, to be issued a firearms license. There are two types of hunting licenses: one for property hunting and the other for hunting clubs or gun clubs.”
The man was granted the “category AB license, which allowed him to possess the long firearms he had” in 2015. Lanyon further stated, “Regarding a firearms license, the firearms registry conducts a comprehensive review of all applications to ensure the applicant is suitable to hold a firearms license.”
The investigation into the backgrounds of the two individuals is ongoing. The commissioner declined to comment on the citizenship of the shooters when questioned.
Aside from recovering six guns from the scene, the police found “active devices,” described as “fairly basic,” in a vehicle on Campbell Parade. These devices have been safely removed.
Premier Chris Minns expressed during the press conference that changes to gun laws are imperative in the aftermath of the tragedy. “I believe it is necessary to amend the firearms legislation in New South Wales,” Minns remarked.
He added, “However, I am not announcing it today. We aim to ensure that any reform and change in New South Wales has a lasting impact. Action can be anticipated soon.” The Premier mentioned the possibility of summoning parliament to expedite new gun-related legislation.
Various investigations are currently underway post the shooting incident. These include a joint counterterrorism probe led by the police counterterrorism command and a critical incident inquiry.
A significant police presence is maintained in Bondi following the attack, with more than 320 officers deployed, including off-duty officers traveling to Bondi to assist their colleagues.