Police have confirmed that one of the suspected gunmen in the Bondi Beach terror attack was licensed to carry firearms for ‘hunting’. In a press conference following the tragic events on Sunday, December 14, which resulted in 16 fatalities, it was revealed that Sajid Akram held a category AB licence, allowing him to own the long arms he possessed.
Akram, who is the father of 24 year old Naveed Akram and worked alongside him, was licensed for six firearms. Premier Chris Mins has called for changes to gun laws in the wake of the tragedy.
The alleged attackers opened fire at a Jewish event marking the first day of Hanukkah. New South Wales Police have confirmed that 38 people are still in hospital, with 15 innocent victims having lost their lives.
The NSW Police Commissioner stated that the 50 year old gunman met the eligibility criteria for a recreational hunting licence. « He was a member of a gun club and was entitled by nature of the firearms acts to have a firearms licence issued. There are two types of hunting licences: the ability to hunt on a property or also as part of a hunting club, or gun club, » explained Mal Lanyon.
The « category AB licence, that entitled him to have the long arms he had » was issued to the man in 2015. Lanyon added: « In terms of a firearms licence, the firearms registry conducts a thorough examination of all applications to ensure a person is fit and proper to hold a firearms licence. », reports The Mirror.
« [The police is] still working through background of the two people… At this stage we know very little about them. »
The commissioner declined to comment on the shooters’ citizenship when asked.
In addition to six firearms retrieved from the scene, police discovered « active devices » described as « fairly basic » in a vehicle on Campbell Parade. These have since been safely removed.
Premier Chris Minns expressed at the press conference that changes to gun laws are necessary following this tragic event. « I think it’s time we have a change to the law in relation to the firearms legislation in New South Wales, » stated Minns.
« But I’m not ready to announce it today. We want to make sure that prospective reform and change in New South Wales has a lasting impact.
« You can expect action soon. »
The Premier revealed he is contemplating recalling parliament to expedite new gun-legislation.
Several investigations are currently underway in response to the shooting. These include a joint counterterrorism investigation led by the police counterterrorism command and a critical incident investigation.
Following the attack, a significant police presence remains in Bondi, with over 320 officers deployed and off-duty officers rushing to Bondi to assist their colleagues.
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