Bondi terror attack hero Ahmed Al Ahmed has described the split-second moment he decided to step in during the alleged attack that left 15 innocent people dead. Returning to Bondi for the first time since the shooting, he said he moved on instinct as shots rang out in Archer Park.
Video from the scene showed Al Ahmed creeping up behind one of the alleged gunmen, tackling him, wrenching the firearm away and forcing him to the ground. Reflecting on that moment, Al Ahmed said, “I remember everything.” He added, “I was screaming and swearing, [the] Aussie way.”
He said his actions were driven by a deep love for Australia and a determination to stop the violence. “[I would give] my blood [and] my heart for Australia. I just saw it, [and thought] ‘do it,’” he said.
Al Ahmed also revealed exactly what he yelled at the alleged gunman as he disarmed him. “[I shouted] ‘motherf—er!’” Al Ahmed said.
Al Ahmed was wounded in the incident and underwent surgery on his arm and hand. He still wears a sling. Sajid Akram was shot dead by police, while his son Naveed, who is accused of also carrying out the shooting, was wounded.
Naveed Akram, 24, is facing 59 charges, including murder and terrorism-related offences. In brief remarks during a recent court appearance, he replied “Yeah,” and later responded “Yep” after the magistrate asked him if he understood and that his solicitor would call him. Akram is next due in court on April 9.