Bondi shooting: NSW Police reveal shock update on Sajid Akram’s gun licence as investigation continues

Police have corrected details surrounding the gun licence obtained by one of the Bondi shooters, which was previously thought to have been held since 2015.

Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon said details previously shared about the licence held by 50-year-old Sajid Akram were inaccurate.

“I would like to correct a record. I have been indicating that Sajid Akram, a 50-year-old male, has held a firearms licence since 2015,” Mr Lanyon said.

The commissioner explained that Mr Akram had applied for the licence on October 8, 2015, and that it was recommended to be issued in November that year.

“I’m advised that he did not get a photo taken, as required by that licence, and the application lapsed in 2016,” Mr Lanyon said.

After this, Mr Akram applied for a gun licence a second time.

“A second Category AB licence was applied for by Mr Akram in 2020. That licence was recommended for issue, and issued in 2023,” Mr Lanyon said.

This means Mr Akram had only held the licence that was valid at the time of the December 14 Bondi attack since 2023, not 2015.

“I think it’s important that the transparent nature of the investigation provides that change,” Mr Lanyon said.

“The initial information had been that it had been issued in 2015, and I think it’s important to give that detail. He was licensed to hold a Category AB licence, and the firearms that we have seized were attached to that licence appropriately.”

This comes as police continue a thorough investigation into the anti-Semitic attack which claimed 15 innocent lives.

AFP Commissioner Krissy Barrett also spoke at Tuesday’s press conference, giving her first public comments since the Bondi shooting.

“I want to describe this attack in my own words so there is no confusion and no ambiguity about the AFP’s position. This was a barbaric attack against Jewish Australians,” Ms Barrett said.

“On Sunday, Jewish Australians were hunted down in broad daylight at an iconic Australian beach. The suspected murderers - callous in how they allegedly coordinated their attack - appeared to have no regard for the age or ableness of their victims. It appears the alleged killers were interested only in a quest for a death tally,” she said.

“Like October 7, 2023, we will not forget how that shocking attack forced Jews around the world to relive modern day terror that should have been consigned to the history books decades ago.

“In Australia, the AFP will never forget the days of December 14 and what it means for a community that deserves to live in peace and harmony. It is understandable and right that the community wants answers.”

Ms Barrett said she understood Australians are looking for answers and said investigators are “very much focused on action” and conducting a “thorough investigation”.

“This investigation will be highly visible, precise and it will operate around the clock.”