Australian Intelligence Investigated Sydney Attacker's ISIS Links Six Years Ago; Death Toll Rises to 16

The Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) reported that the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) had previously investigated links between one of the Bondi Beach attackers and the ISIS organization six years ago, noting evidence that the perpetrators pledged allegiance to the group.

Attack Details and Perpetrators:

• New Casualties: Police announced that 16 people were killed and over 40 injured in the shooting that targeted celebrants of the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah. (This is an updated and higher toll than previously reported.)

• Perpetrator Identity: Australian media identified the attackers as father Sajid Akram (50), who was killed in the shootout with police, and son Naveed Akram (24), who is currently in critical condition under police guard.

• ISIS Allegiance and Evidence: Counter-terrorism investigators believe the two gunmen pledged allegiance to ISIS. Senior officials reported finding two ISIS flags in the attackers' vehicle at the beach.

Australian Intelligence Investigations (ASIO):

• Prior Investigation: ABC quoted a senior official saying that ASIO investigated the son (Naveed Akram) in 2019 due to suspicions.

• Link to Convicted Terrorist: Naveed Akram was believed to be closely linked to an ISIS member arrested in July 2019 and convicted of planning a terrorist act in Australia.

• ASIO Director's Statement: ASIO Director-General Mike Burgess told reporters that one of the gunmen "was known to us, but not from the perspective of being an immediate threat." He emphasized the need to review the circumstances of the incident.

• Official Silence: New South Wales Police could not confirm the ABC report, and ASIO stated it "does not comment on individuals or ongoing investigations."