Diplomat Foreign Desk
SYDNEY: Atleast nine civilians were reportedly killed in a horrific mass-shooting incident at Australia’s famed Bondi Beach in Sydney.
The reports claim that one of the two shooters have also been killed, and his accomplice has sustained critical bullet injuries on Sunday in police’s response.
As per the initial reports, the attack occurred on December 14th evening as the beach was reportedly hosting a community event to mark the beginning of the Jewish festival of Hanukkah.
The news reporting quoting, New South Wales (NSW) Police have confirmed the fatality count and stated that multiple victims suffered gunshot wounds.
“Eighteen people have reportedly been transported to various local hospitals for treatment,” the report states.
Police Response and Immediate Arrests
Emergency services, including a large contingent of police and ambulance crews, were called to the popular tourist destination around 6:45 PM local time following reports of multiple gunshots.
NSW Police quickly advised the public to avoid the area and for anyone at the scene to take shelter as they responded to a “developing incident.”
In an update shortly after the initial reports, police confirmed that two people were taken into custody, with media reports suggesting one of the arrested individuals was the second suspected shooter. Authorities later confirmed that one gunman was killed at the scene. The police operation remains ongoing as investigators work to secure the area and establish a full timeline of events.
Attack During Jewish Festival Hanukkah:
Reports from the Executive Council of Australian Jewry indicated that the shooting took place during a celebration by the sea.
A co-chief executive of the Council suggested the event, a family gathering, may have been deliberately targeted, calling it an act of “hateful violence.”
Witnesses reported hearing dozens of gunshots, leading to scenes of mass panic as attendees scrambled to flee the area.
Meanwhile, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called the scenes in Bondi “shocking and distressing,” assuring the public that the government is working closely with NSW Police to manage the ongoing security situation. (Agencies)