Sajid Akram's Severed Family Ties After the Shooting at Bondi Beach
Bondi Beach Shooting: Terror Suspect Sajid Akram Never Went Back to Family or Back Home After 1998
The recent Bondi Beach shooting in Sydney has made international headlines and stirred countless questions about the shooter. Information emerging about terrorist suspect Sajid Akram, a 50-year-old man with Indian descent, confirms that he did not return to India following the death of his father and thus remains completely disconnected from his family and roots after many years.
Minimal Family Contact Since 1998
Police believe that Sajid has lived in Australia since November of 1998. The police also stated that after moving from India, he has had very little, if any, contact with his family in Hyderabad, India. Family members of Sajid have told the police that over the years very little communication has taken place between them and Sajid. Even when significant events within his immediate family happened (including the passing of his father), Sajid never returned to India for those events.
A Terrorist Attack at Bondi Beach
After turning Bondi Beach into a horrific place, the Bondi Beach incident has left everyone shocked. With over 15 people killed in this tragic incident, it is among the deadliest violent events in Australian history. Akram was shot and killed by police during their attempts to end the threat to public safety. Investigators are currently investigating Akram for his motivation, his ideological beliefs, and any possible connection he had with extremist groups.
Continuing Investigation
Australian Security Officials are continuing to work with foreign Security Officials, including officials from India, to determine Akram's history and activities. Investigators are reviewing his travel history, internet activities, and social networks to find out if he was working alone or under the influence of extremist groups.
A Tragic Reminder
The Bondi Beach shooting demonstrates how security threats on a global level have become popularized and how early intervention is critical to reducing these threats. According to officials working on the investigations, it is essential that communities be aware of the threat of violence, and work with each other across borders and collaborate on preventing similar incidents from occurring in the future.
