Sydney terror attack: Australia marks Day of Reflection for victims, orders intelligence review
Sydney: Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Sunday announced a comprehensive review of the country’s intelligence and law enforcement agencies in the wake of the deadly terror attack at Sydney’s Bondi Beach that claimed the lives of 15 innocent people.
In a statement, Albanese said the review would closely assess the existing powers, organisational structures, operational processes and information-sharing mechanisms aimed at safeguarding Australians, according to a report by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.
The decision to initiate the review comes a week after a mass shooting targeted a gathering marking the first day of the Jewish festival of Hanukkah, leaving 15 people dead.
Authorities have since confirmed that the attack, described as Australia’s deadliest mass shooting since 1996, was inspired by Islamic State ideology.
To commemorate the victims, a National Day of Reflection is being observed on Sunday across the country in memory of those killed in the Bondi Beach terror attack.
Sharing a message on X, Prime Minister Albanese said, “Terrorists have sought to divide this country, but this is a time to stand united – particularly on this National Day of Reflection. There are organised rallies seeking to sow division in the aftermath of last Sunday’s antisemitic terrorist attack, and they have no place in Australia. They should not go ahead, and people should not attend them.”
He further announced that at 6:47 p.m. later in the day, the nation would observe a minute’s silence and light candles to pay tribute to the victims of the attack.
“For our Jewish community, the pain is deep. For people across the country, the shock is still raw. I encourage all Australians to pause with us in honour of the lives lost, and in support of the families in mourning. Together, we will fight against antisemitism in every form,” Albanese said.
According to officials, one of the two alleged attackers was shot dead by police at the scene.
The second accused, identified as 24-year-old Naveed Akram, has been taken into custody and charged with 59 offences, including 15 counts of murder and one count related to committing a terrorist act.