17 people, including a police officer, were killed and over 50 others were injured in a shooting incident on the evening of December 14 at Bondi Beach, a famous tourist destination in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. The incident also coincided with the night of the Hanukkah celebrations the previous day, and many people were present there. According to local police and news reports, several rounds of gunfire were fired at the beach, causing a stampede among tourists. Police have asked people to stay away from the area and take shelter in safe places until the situation becomes clear. New South Wales Police issued a public warning after the incident, saying, “Anyone who is there should take shelter.”
Police said they have detained two individuals, but the investigation is ongoing, and it’s unclear whether the two detained individuals were involved in the shooting. Police have sealed off the area and urged the public to at least follow police instructions. Initial reports indicate that seven people, including a police officer, were injured and taken to hospital. However, it’s not yet clear how many are seriously injured.
Local emergency services, ambulances and helicopters are on scene, and medical assistance is being provided to the injured. The Australian Prime Minister’s Office also confirmed that this is an active security situation and the public is being asked to follow the instructions of the authorities. New South Wales Premier Chris Minns said that the reports coming from the scene are “tragic” and that police are responding effectively at the scene.