Tue Dec 30 01:20:38 UTC 2025: Here’s a news article summarizing the provided text, suitable for “The Hindu” e-paper:

The Hindu: World News

Bondi Beach Attack: Lone Wolves, Not Terror Cell, Say Police

Sydney, Australia – December 30, 2025 – Australian police have concluded that Sajid Akram, an Indian national, and his son, Naveed Akram, who were responsible for the mass shooting at Bondi Beach during a Hanukkah celebration on December 14th, acted alone and were not part of a larger terrorist network. The attack, which claimed the lives of 15 people, was allegedly inspired by ISIS.

“These individuals are alleged to have acted alone,” stated Australian Federal Police Commissioner Krissy Barrett at a press conference on Tuesday. “There is no evidence to suggest these alleged offenders were part of a broader terrorist cell, or were directed by others to carry out the attack.”

The investigation continues into the Akrams’ activities, particularly their trip to Davao, Philippines, in the weeks leading up to the shooting. CCTV footage showed they rarely left their budget hotel, leading police to believe their purpose was not tourism related. Evidence suggests the pair meticulously planned the attack for months, including firearms training in rural Australia. A video recorded in October showed them expressing anti-Zionist sentiments while displaying an ISIS flag.

Sajid Akram, 50, who entered Australia on a visa in 1998, was killed by police during the attack. His son, Naveed Akram, 24, an Australian citizen, remains in custody facing 15 counts of murder, as well as other serious charges.

As New Year’s Eve approaches, Sydney plans a minute of silence at 11 p.m. on Wednesday to honor the victims. Premier Chris Minns has assured the public that a heavy police presence will be deployed at celebrations, emphasizing that safety is the top priority.

In response to the tragedy, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced a nationwide crackdown on gun ownership and hate speech, promising stricter laws and harsher penalties, including a large-scale gun buyback program reminiscent of the reforms following the 1996 Port Arthur massacre. He has also ordered a thorough review of the performance of police and intelligence services.

  • Categories: World / Australia / Police / Crime, Law and Justice

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Summary of original text

An Indian national, Sajid Akram, and his Australian-born son, Naveed Akram, were responsible for a mass shooting at Bondi Beach during a Hanukkah celebration in Sydney, Australia. Police believe they acted alone and were not part of a wider terrorist cell, despite an ISIS-inspired motive and travel to the Philippines. Sajid was killed during the attack, while Naveed is in custody. Sydney is planning a minute of silence for the victims on New Year’s Eve, and the Australian government is implementing stricter gun control measures and reviewing security services in response.

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