Newly released court filings have revealed extensive preparation and ideological motivation behind the deadly attack at a Hanukkah gathering near Sydney’s Bondi Beach earlier this month, offering the clearest picture yet of how authorities say the assault was planned and carried out.
According to documents presented in a New South Wales court, investigators believe the attack was orchestrated over several months by a father and son, with evidence pointing to careful reconnaissance, weapons training, and the construction of homemade explosive devices. The incident, which occurred on December 14 at Archer Park near Bondi Beach, left 15 people dead and dozens injured, marking one of the deadliest terror-related attacks in Australia’s history.
The surviving suspect, 24-year-old Naveed Akram, now faces 59 criminal charges, including multiple counts of murder, attempted murder, and engaging in a terrorist act. His father, Sajid Akram, 50, who police allege acted alongside him, was shot and killed by officers during the incident. Naveed Akram was wounded, hospitalized under guard, and transferred to a correctional facility following his release from medical care on December 22. His next court appearance is scheduled for February.
Homemade Explosives and Firearms
Court documents allege that the attackers brought multiple improvised explosive devices to the scene, including pipe-style bombs and a smaller device concealed in a sports ball. While none of the explosives detonated, authorities described them as functional and capable of causing significant harm. A larger device was later discovered in the trunk of the vehicle used to travel to the location.
In addition to explosives, police say the pair carried several firearms, including shotguns and a rifle, which were used after the devices were thrown toward the crowd.
Digital Evidence and Ideological Motivation
Investigators recovered video recordings from the suspect’s mobile phone that prosecutors claim demonstrate ideological motivation and intent. The videos allegedly show the two men discussing grievances and justifications for violence, recorded weeks before the attack. Authorities also pointed to footage showing firearms practice in a rural setting, suggesting deliberate preparation and weapons familiarity.
Surveillance and Reconnaissance
Security camera footage cited in the filings shows two men visiting the park days before the attack, walking along the same footbridge later used during the assault. Prosecutors argue this supports claims of prior surveillance and site planning.
On the day of the attack, additional footage reportedly captured the suspects leaving a rented property in Sydney’s southwest carrying wrapped items later identified as weapons and explosives, before driving to Bondi Beach in the early evening.
Searches and Seized Items
Following the incident, police executed multiple search warrants at properties linked to the suspects. Items seized included bomb-making components, modified weapon parts, archery equipment, electronic devices, and written materials. Investigators also recovered evidence suggesting attempts to avoid detection, including the use of payphones during the planning period.
Court Orders and Public Disclosure
A temporary suppression order initially limited public access to the police fact sheet to protect surviving victims. That order was lifted on December 22 after a legal challenge, allowing a redacted version of the document to be released. Victims who wish to speak publicly are now permitted to do so, with further court review scheduled for early next year.
Ongoing Proceedings
Authorities say the case remains active as investigators continue to analyze digital evidence and trace the origins of the weapons and materials used. Prosecutors argue the filings demonstrate a calculated and deliberate act of violence rather than a spontaneous attack.
As legal proceedings continue, the case is expected to prompt renewed discussion in Australia around public safety, extremism prevention, and the monitoring of violent threats.
