Bondi Beach Terror Attack: Accused Arrested After Awakening from Coma

December 17, 2025

Sydney: Naveed Akram, the survivor of the horrific Bondi Beach terror attack in Australia, was arrested in his hospital bed after he woke up from a coma. The 25-year-old was taken into custody after doctors confirmed he was fully conscious and able to understand legal procedures. According to Australian media, police were waiting for him to regain consciousness so he could be legally arrested.

Naveed has been charged with a total of 59 counts, including one count of committing a terrorist act, 15 counts of murder, 40 counts of attempted murder, planting explosives near a building, firing with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, and publicly displaying terrorist symbols.

Deadliest Attack in 30 Years, Father Killed in Police Encounter

This attack is being described as the deadliest terrorist attack in Australia in the last 30 years. Naved and his father, Sajid Akram, opened fire with rifles and shotguns during a Jewish Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach in Sydney, killing 15 people and injuring over 40. The victims ranged in age from 10 to 87, including a Holocaust survivor and a London-born rabbi.

Naveed’s father, Sajid Akram (50), originally from Hyderabad, was killed in police retaliation. Naved was seriously injured and fell into a coma.

Investigation into foreign connections, Philippines trip suspected

Investigative agencies are also investigating foreign radical connections behind the attack. According to reports, the father-son duo traveled to the Philippines between November 1 and 28. It is suspected they may have contacted a radical network or received military training there.

Sajid Akram emigrated from India to Australia in 1998 and married a European Christian woman. Telangana police have clarified that Sajid and Naveed’s radicalization was not linked to any local influence in India or Telangana.

Three Indian students were among those injured in the attack and are undergoing treatment in hospital.