Bondi Beach attack: Shooter wakes up from coma, faces 59 charges, including 15 counts of murder

Australian media reported that Akram, who was critically injured during the December 14 attack, is recovering in hospital under police guard and has begun communicating with investigators.

Charges filed after medical clearance

Authorities said Akram was arrested at his hospital bedside after doctors determined he was medically fit and mentally capable of understanding the legal process.

New South Wales Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon confirmed that detectives waited until Akram regained cognitive function before formally cautioning and charging him.

In addition to multiple murder charges, Akram faces allegations of wounding with intent to murder, publicly displaying a prohibited terrorist symbol, and placing an explosive device in or near a building.

He is scheduled to appear before a court via a bedside hearing.

Attack that shocked Australia and the world

The Bondi Beach shooting, carried out during a public Hanukkah celebration, left 15 people dead and marked Australia’s deadliest mass shooting since 1996.

Akram and his father, Sajid Akram, allegedly opened fire on the gathering before police intervened.

Sajid was killed during the counter-operation, while Naveed was left critically wounded.

The attack triggered global outrage and renewed concern over rising antisemitism, with Jewish communities worldwide mourning the victims.

Mourning and memorials across Sydney

As legal proceedings against Akram move forward, thousands of mourners gathered at the Bondi Pavilion to honour those killed in the massacre.

Funerals for the victims have begun, drawing emotional scenes across the city.

New Year’s Eve celebrations at Bondi Beach have been cancelled, including a major electronic music event that had been billed as Sydney’s biggest party of the year.

The first funeral was held for Rabbi Eli Schlanger, whose death has deeply shaken Australia’s Jewish community.

Rabbi Levi Wolff of Chabad of Bondi described Schlanger’s passing as an immeasurable loss, saying the community was united in grief following the “horrific terrorist attack” on the city.

Philippines trip under probe

Investigators are also examining a recent overseas trip made by the father-son duo to the Philippines.

According to immigration records, Sajid and Naveed Akram travelled there in early November and returned later that month.

Philippine authorities said the purpose of the visit remains under scrutiny, with security agencies assessing any potential links to extremist groups operating in the region.

The Philippine and Australian foreign ministers have agreed to closely coordinate as investigations continue.

Intelligence agencies had prior awareness

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese revealed that the attackers had been influenced by Islamic State ideology.

He also confirmed that Naveed Akram had come to the attention of Australia’s intelligence agencies in 2019 but was not assessed as an immediate threat at the time.

As Akram prepares to face court, the case continues to raise urgent questions about radicalisation, intelligence monitoring and public safety in Australia.