Suspect In Bondi Beach Mass Shooting Makes First Court Appearance

SYDNEY (AP) — A man accused killing 15 people He appeared in court on Monday for the first time since his release from hospital in the mass shooting at a Jewish festival on Sydney’s Bondi Beach.

Naveed Akram He appeared at Sydney Downing Center Local Court via a video link from the maximum security Goulburn Prison Centre, 200 kilometers (120 miles) away.

He pleaded no contest to the charges against him, including murder and committing an act of terrorism. The brief hearing focused on expanding the gag order that hides the identities of assault victims and survivors who have not chosen to identify themselves publicly.

Defense lawyer Ben Archbold told reporters outside court that Akram had done what was expected and that it was too early to indicate any intention to defend himself.

While 24-year-old Akram was injured in the gunfight that broke out with the police following the attack on the beach during Hanukkah celebrations on December 14, his 50-year-old father Sajid Akram also died.

Young Akram’s next hearing will be held on April 9.

The police investigation is the worst alleged terror attack in Australia and one of three official inquiries examining the country’s situation. Worst mass murder in 29 years.

The first involves interactions between law enforcement and intelligence agencies prior to the attack that allegedly inspired it. Islamic State group.

A royal commission, its highest form public inquiryIt will explore the nature, prevalence and drivers of antisemitism in general, as well as the circumstances of the Bondi attack.