The mother of Naveed Akram, a suspect in the recent Bondi Beach attack, has voiced her profound shock and disbelief at her son’s alleged role in the violence. Verena Akram, speaking to the media, described her 24-year-old son as a reserved, well-behaved individual with no history of association with extremist elements. She revealed her last contact with him was just hours before the incident, during which he mentioned being in Jervis Bay with his father for a short holiday.
Recounting their final conversation, she shared Naveed’s words: “Mum, I just went for a swim. I went scuba diving. We’re going to eat now, and we’ll stay indoors because it’s very hot.” The father and son had previously told their family they were embarking on a fishing expedition along Australia’s South Coast.
Ms. Akram further elaborated on her son’s lifestyle, stating he was unemployed and lived a very modest existence. She adamantly refuted any possibility of his involvement in extremist ideologies or violent acts, emphasizing his lack of firearms and limited social outings. She depicted him as a responsible young man dedicated to work, home, and fitness.
The terror attack occurred during a Jewish Hanukkah celebration on Bondi Beach, leading to 15 deaths. Naveed Akram was detained at the scene, while his father, Sajid Akram, was shot and killed by police in a confrontation, bringing the total number of deceased to 16. Australian authorities attributed the high casualty count to the suddenness and brutality of the attack. Naveed Akram is understood to be a Pakistani national.
Australia’s Prime Minister described the event as an “act of pure evil,” highlighting its antisemitic and terrorist nature.