Bondi shooting: NSW premier Chris Minns hails bystander Ahmed who disarmed attacker

WEB DESK: The Premier of New South Wales, Chris Minns, has publicly thanked Ahmed, the bystander who disarmed an armed attacker at Bondi Beach, saying his actions saved countless lives and prevented further bloodshed.

In a post on Facebook, Minns described Ahmed as a “real-life hero”, saying it was an honour to meet him and convey the gratitude of people across New South Wales. “There is no doubt that more lives would have been lost if not for Ahmed’s selfless courage,” the premier wrote, praising his willingness to put himself in danger to protect others.

The dramatic intervention came during a deadly shooting at the popular Sydney beach, where at least 12 people were killed and several others injured, according to Reuters. Initial reports suggested the attacker targeted members of the Jewish community, prompting widespread shock and condemnation.

Footage circulating on social media shows Ahmed, dressed in a white shirt, sprinting across a car park towards the armed man, tackling him from behind and wresting a rifle from his hands. The video captures the attacker stumbling backwards towards a nearby bridge as Ahmed points the weapon at him before placing it safely on the ground.

Ahmed’s bravery drew praise from across Australia, including Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who said the bystanders who intervened were heroes whose actions saved lives. As images of the incident spread online, speculation emerged about Ahmed’s identity and background, with some social media users guessing whether he was Muslim. Authorities had earlier said his identity would be formally confirmed in due course.

Minns’ public acknowledgement has now put a name to the act of courage, underscoring the decisive role played by an ordinary citizen in stopping an attack that could have claimed many more lives.

Web Desk