Australian police have arrested seven men accused of planning an act of violence at Bondi Beach, just days after a deadly terror attack at the popular Sydney location.
Heavily armed counter terrorism officers intercepted the suspects after ramming their vehicle at an intersection in Liverpool, south west Sydney. Footage from the scene showed police in camouflage gear handcuffing the men and forcing them to the ground beside a damaged white Hyundai.
Local media reported that the suspects had travelled from Melbourne and were allegedly on their way to Bondi Beach when they were stopped. Police confirmed that intelligence received suggested a violent act was possibly being planned.
In a statement, police said, “Tactical Operations police responded to information received that a violent act was possibly being planned.
“Police subsequently intercepted two cars as part of the investigation. As investigations continue, seven men are assisting police with their inquiries. At this point in time, police have not identified any connection to the current police investigation of the Bondi terror attack.”
Authorities stressed that the operation was a precautionary move taken amid heightened security concerns following Sunday’s mass shooting at Bondi Beach.
Two gunmen opened fire at the beach, killing 15 people, including a 10 year old girl, in what authorities described as the worst mass shooting in Australia’s recent history. Police said the attackers, a father and son, were inspired by the Islamic State group.
Sajid Akram, 50, was shot dead by police at the scene, while his 24 year old son Naveed was critically injured during the shootout. Naveed has since regained consciousness and has been charged with 59 offences, including 15 counts of murder and one count of committing a terrorist act.
Other charges against him include 40 counts of wounding with intent to murder, placing an explosive in or near a building, discharging a firearm with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and publicly displaying a terrorist symbol. His case was scheduled to be heard in court on Wednesday, December 17.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the Bondi attack as an “act of pure evil” that deliberately targeted the Jewish community.
Hundreds of mourners have since gathered to pay tribute to the victims, including 10 year old Matilda, the youngest of those killed. She was shot in front of her six year old sister during the attack. Her funeral drew large crowds who gathered to honour her memory and that of the other victims.
