Police documents allege that Naveed Akram, 24, and his father Sajid Akram carried out firearms training weeks before the Bondi Beach attack. Videos recovered from Naveed Akram’s phone reportedly show the pair firing shotguns and moving tactically in what investigators believe was a rural area of New South Wales. Police say the footage indicates deliberate preparation rather than spontaneous violence.

Explosives Thrown at Start of Assault

Investigators allege the attack began with the throwing of four homemade explosive devices, including a so-called “tennis ball bomb,” as the pair approached the footbridge at Bondi Beach. None of the devices detonated, but police assessed them as viable improvised explosives. A fifth explosive device was later found inside the attackers’ vehicle.

ISIS Flag and Video Manifesto

Police allege the two men recorded a video manifesto in October while seated in front of a flag of the ISIS terrorist organization. Investigators say the footage outlines their motivation for the attack and contains extremist rhetoric linked to ISIS ideology. Two ISIS flags were also allegedly found in the suspects’ vehicle and displayed inside the car windows before the attack.

Surveillance and Final Preparations

CCTV footage reviewed by police allegedly shows the pair conducting reconnaissance at Bondi Beach two days before the attack. Additional footage reportedly captured them leaving rented accommodation in Sydney hours before the assault carrying firearms, explosive devices and ISIS flags wrapped in blankets.

Charges and Ongoing Investigation

Naveed Akram has been charged with dozens of offences, including 15 counts of murder, over the 14 December attack on a Hanukkah celebration. He was critically injured after being shot by police and later transferred to prison. Sajid Akram was shot dead at the scene.

Authorities say the investigation continues as they examine the extent of planning, extremist links and security implications surrounding the attack.