The attack in Australia: one of the terrorists was known to the authorities

Police forces responded quickly to reports of gunfire, and an exchange of fire ensued. One of the terrorists was killed at the scene, and a second terrorist was arrested and is in a serious condition in the hospital under guard. The police are investigating the suspected presence of a third threat. A long weapon was used at the scene, and subsequent searches located a vehicle on Campbell Street in Bondi, linked to the slain terrorist. Several improvised explosive devices were found inside the vehicle, and bomb disposal units were called to the scene to neutralize the threat.

Mal Lanyon stated that at 21:36 the incident was officially declared a terrorist incident. This declaration gave the police special powers under Sections 5 and 6 of the law, which allow special measures to be taken to prevent further hostile activity and to carry out a comprehensive investigation. Lanion explained that the decision to define the incident as terrorism resulted from a combination of circumstances, including the timing of the Hanukkah holiday and the findings in the offending vehicle. He called on the public to keep calm and warned against acts of revenge, saying that the police will act decisively and turn every stone in the investigation, which will be conducted by the Counter-Terrorism Command in cooperation with the State Crime Command.

Chris Means described the attack as a “cowardly act of appalling violence” that realized the public’s worst fears about terrorism. He expressed deep shock and sent his condolences to the families of the murdered and to the entire Jewish community. Means emphasized that it is the duty of all Australians to “embrace the Jewish community” and help it get through this difficult time.