Post by : Saif
Al-Najjar
Authorities in Telangana have declared that the family of Sajid Akram, identified as one of the gunmen involved in the tragic Bondi Beach shooting in Australia, was not aware of his radical ideologies or actions. Officials noted that there is no evidence connecting his radicalisation to India or any local influences in his native Telangana.
The violent incident occurred on Sunday during a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach in Sydney and has been labelled as Australia’s most severe mass shooting in nearly three decades. The authorities are treating the incident as an act of terrorism targeting the Jewish community. Tragically, sixteen individuals lost their lives in this assault, including Sajid Akram, who was shot by police.
As per reports from Australian authorities, Sajid Akram, 50, emigrated to Australia in 1998. His involvement in the shooting was shared with his 24-year-old son, Naveed Akram, who is alleged to be an accomplice. Naveed is currently in critical condition after being shot by law enforcement.
A statement released on Tuesday by Telangana police indicated that Sajid Akram hailed from Hyderabad and had limited contact with his relatives in India. Family members informed police that they were completely oblivious to any extremist ideology or intentions. They emphasized that they were unaware of the events that might have ignited his radicalisation.
Indian police verified that Sajid Akram had visited India six times since relocating to Australia, primarily for family matters. Records revealed no criminal background or negative indications during his time in India, either prior to his migration or on subsequent visits.
It was also disclosed by Australian authorities that both Sajid and his son traveled to the Philippines last month; Sajid on an Indian passport, while his son flew using an Australian one. The objectives of their trip are currently under scrutiny. Officials remain uncertain whether they shared any affiliations with extremist groups or underwent any training during their travels.
Telangana police asserted that, at present, the radicalisation of both individuals doesn’t appear to connect with India. There is no evidence of local influence or engagement from Hyderabad or elsewhere in the state.
Such clarifications are vital, particularly when attacks like this raise alarms about international ties and transnational extremism. Indian authorities have underscored the need for factual investigations to prevent unjust accusations against families or communities.
As investigative efforts continue in Australia, Indian police have expressed their willingness to cooperate if further information is necessary. Meanwhile, they emphasize that the gunman’s family in India had no involvement, prior awareness, or indications of the tragic violence that unfolded far away.
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