UPDATE: In a shocking revelation, alleged Bondi gunman Naveed Akram, aged 24, misled his mother about his whereabouts just hours before the deadly attack that left 16 dead and 40 injured in Bondi, Sydney.
On September 24, 2023, Akram called his mother, Verena, claiming he was spending the weekend in the scenic Jervis Bay area. Verena recounted, “He rings me up and said Mum, I just went for a swim, I went scuba diving. We’re going to eat now.” Unbeknownst to her, he was allegedly preparing for a tragic act of violence that would shake the nation.
As details emerge, Verena insists her son was harmless, stating, “He doesn’t have a firearm. He doesn’t even go out.” She described him as a dedicated worker, recently laid off from his job as a bricklayer, and someone who enjoyed outdoor activities like fishing and swimming.
The community of Shoalhaven, where flags are flying at half-mast, is in mourning. Shoalhaven Mayor Patricia White expressed solidarity, saying, “We must come together.” She emphasized the need to stand against the targeted violence that particularly affected Jewish Australians, calling the attack “beyond comprehension” and praising the bravery of first responders.
State Member for South Coast, Liza Butler, shared her condolences for the victims and their families, highlighting the need for unity against such acts of terror. “We must all stand together, united against terror, violence, racial, and religious intolerance,” she stated.
Federal Member for Gilmore, Fiona Phillips, echoed these sentiments, urging those affected to seek support from Lifeline at 13 11 14. “There is no place for hate, violence, and terrorism,” she asserted, emphasizing the community’s collective grief.
As Australia grapples with the aftermath of this horrific event, the focus now shifts to support for those impacted and the ongoing investigation into the motivations behind this tragedy. Authorities are diligently working to ensure the safety and security of all citizens as the nation mourns and seeks answers.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
