At least 12 people, including one of the two alleged gunmen, have been killed in a mass shooting at Bondi Beach, with NSW Police declaring the incident a terrorist attack.

NSW Police say the shooting began at about 6:45pm AEDT near the northern end of Bondi Beach, close to Bondi Park playground, where a Hanukkah celebration — “Chanukah by the Sea” — was taking place.

A further 29 people were injured, including two police officers who NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon said were in a “serious, verging on critical” condition and undergoing surgery. Patients were transported to multiple Sydney hospitals, including St Vincent’s and Royal Prince Alfred.

Commissioner Lanyon said he formally declared the shooting a terrorist incident at 9:36pm, citing the circumstances surrounding the attack and evidence located at the scene.

Police also reported a suspected improvised explosive device (IED) found in a vehicle on Campbell Parade, with devices believed to be located near the bridge where shots were fired. The items were removed from the area in an armoured vehicle, and the site has since been handed to crime scene investigators.
ABC

One alleged shooter has been identified by a law enforcement source as Naveed Akram from Bonnyrigg, with police reportedly conducting searches at an associated address. Authorities said a second alleged shooter is in police custody.

ASIO Director-General Mike Burgess said investigators were examining the identities of the attackers and whether others may hold “similar intent”, noting one individual was known to ASIO but not regarded as an immediate threat.

NSW Premier Chris Minns condemned the attack and urged calm as the investigation continues.

News Source: ABC News