Who is Naveed Akram? Suspect Identified in Deadly Bondi Beach Shooting
By The Sydney Crime Desk
Authorities have identified Naveed Akram as one of the gunmen responsible for the horrific terror attack that claimed 12 lives at a Hanukkah celebration in Sydney. The 24-year-old was named shortly after the massacre at Bondi Beach, launching a massive investigation into his background, movements, and radicalization.
Here is everything we know so far about Naveed Akram and his role in the Bondi Beach shooting.
Personal Background and Heritage
Naveed Akram, 24, was a resident of Bonnyrigg, a suburb in South-West Sydney. According to reports, he resided in a home his family had owned for approximately one year.
Police sources have identified Akram as a Muslim man of Pakistani origin. His educational background spans two continents; investigations reveal he spent time studying at Central Queensland University (Sydney campus). Furthermore, Akram reportedly spent significant time in Pakistan, where he attended Hamdard University in Islamabad and the Al Murad Institute. During his time overseas, he was described by some associates as a "model student."
Role in the Bondi Beach Shooting
Akram was identified by detectives after his driver's license was recovered at the crime scene on Campbell Parade.
On the evening of Sunday, December 14, 2025, Akram and an accomplice launched the attack on the "Hanukkah by the Sea" event. Witnesses and police confirm the men were dressed in tactical black gear and armed with long-range firearms, specifically a 12-gauge shotgun and a straight-pull rifle.
In addition to the firearms, the Sydney Joint Counter Terrorism Team linked a vehicle containing suspected improvised explosive devices (IEDs) to Akram and his accomplice, suggesting a high level of premeditation aimed at maximizing casualties at Bondi Beach.
Current Status: Dead or in Custody?
In the chaotic aftermath of the shooting, reports regarding Akram’s immediate status have varied. NSW Police confirmed that one gunman was shot dead at the scene, while the second was apprehended and remains in critical condition under heavy police guard.
While Naveed Akram is definitively one of the two assailants, authorities have not yet publicly clarified if he is the deceased suspect or the individual currently hospitalized.
Prior Intelligence: Was Akram Known to Police?
A critical aspect of the unfolding investigation is Akram’s history with intelligence agencies. NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon confirmed that Akram was "known to authorities," including ASIO, prior to the Bondi Beach attack.
Despite being on a watchlist, Akram had been assessed as having "very, very little knowledge to the police" regarding specific violent intent. Prior to Sunday's events, he was deemed "not an immediate threat." This classification is expected to face intense scrutiny in the coming days as the nation grapples with how a known individual was able to execute such a deadly shooting in the heart of Sydney.
Ongoing Investigation in Sydney
Following the identification of the suspect, tactical police units raided Akram's residence in Bonnyrigg on Sunday night. Detectives are currently analyzing his digital footprint, specifically focusing on his time spent overseas and any communications that may have facilitated what Premier Chris Minns has called a "targeted" and "ideologically motivated" act of evil.