Shooting on Bondi Beach in Sydney: at least three people killed, dozens injured
A shooting took place on Bondi Beach in Sydney on Sunday evening, leaving at least three people dead and six others injured, according to preliminary reports. The incident occurred at around 18:40 local time during an event celebrating the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah. This was reported by The Public with reference to CNBC and Telegraph.
New South Wales Police have confirmed that two people are in custody, but the operation is ongoing and people are being urged to avoid the area. According to eyewitnesses, more than 50 shots were fired, after which thousands of people fled the beach in panic. Local media reported that the wounded were lying at the scene, and medics were providing assistance right on the sand.
Videos have been posted on social media showing people running away to the sound of gunfire and sirens, as well as the moment two men were detained by police. According to unconfirmed reports, the attackers opened fire from a car park near the beach.
A representative of Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the government was closely monitoring the situation and urged citizens to follow police instructions. Israeli President Yitzhak Herzog called the attack a terrorist act and said that it was directed against the Jewish community during a peaceful celebration.
Bondi Beach is one of the most famous in the country and attracts around 2.6 million visitors each year. The incident took place almost exactly 11 years after the hostage-taking at the Lindt cafe in Sydney, when three people, including the gunman, were killed.
