Australian police detained seven men on Thursday following intelligence suggesting they were planning a violent act near Bondi Beach. The arrests occurred in southwest Sydney and at the location of last weekend’s deadly Hanukkah attack targeting Jews.
Authorities stopped a white car traveling from Victoria to Bondi Beach, using tactical operations to detain five suspects. Videos showed officers in camouflage gear zip-tying the individuals on a Sydney street. A second vehicle was stopped nearby, resulting in two additional arrests.
New South Wales Police confirmed they acted on intelligence about a potential violent act: “Tactical Operations police responded to information received that a violent act was possibly being planned.” Police have not disclosed specific details about the arrested men but stated there is no ongoing risk of violence.
The arrests follow a horrific attack last weekend, allegedly carried out by Sajid and Naveed Akram. The father and son are accused of killing 15 people during a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach. Naveed, who pledged support for ISIS, had been previously investigated for ties to the Islamic State. Authorities have yet to identify any connection between the recent arrests and the previous attack.
Local media reports suggest a weapon may have been recovered in one of the vehicles, though Australian police have not confirmed this detail.
