Bondi Beach Shooting: Sajid Akram, originally from Hyderabad, had no known links with Telangana or India that could explain his radicalisation, Telangana police said on Tuesday. Officials said preliminary checks have not found any local influence or contact that may have contributed to his actions. Akram, 50, has been identified as one of the two attackers involved in the mass shooting at a Jewish event at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia, which left at least 16 people dead on December 14, 2025.
Migrated To Australia 27 Years Ago
The Hindu report cited Indian government officials who conducted a background check as stating that, Akram migrated to Australia in 1998 on a student visa. A resident of Tolichowki in Hyderabad, he visited India only “two-three occasions” after moving abroad and last came to India in 2022.
“His father died in 2017; he did not even come to attend his last rites,” a senior government official said.
Family Lives In Hyderabad, Limited Contact
Officials said Akram’s immediate family continues to live in Hyderabad and his elder brother is a doctor. His father had retired from the army in the UAE in 1984. Police said Akram maintained very limited contact with his family over the years.
Son An Australian Citizen
Akram’s son, Naveed Akram, the second attacker, was born in Australia in 2001 and is an Australian citizen. Naveed was shot by police during the incident and is currently undergoing treatment in hospital.
“After completing bachelors in commerce from Hyderabad, Akram moved to Australia and married a European woman. He retained his Indian passport,” an official said.
No Local Links Found So Far
On whether Akram had any local connections, The Hindu report cited an official as stating that, “Preliminary investigation does not establish any local links so far. We do not have access to his activities in Australia. His background was checked based on information from our sources.”
Family Says Ties Were Cut Years Ago
The News Minute report cited Akram’s brother as stating that the family had cut ties with Sajid more than 25 years ago after he married a Christian. He added that Sajid never enquired about their mother, who is in her eighties and unwell. Indian authorities have since visited the family and collected details.
The report further cited Sources as stating that Akram had a property dispute with his brothers during a visit to Hyderabad a few years ago. Other family members may also be questioned.
Australian Authorities In Touch With India
The Hindu report cited Sources as confirming that Australian authorities are in touch with Indian officials as the investigation continues. Philippine immigration officials said Sajid Akram and his son travelled to the Philippines from Sydney on November 1, 2025.