Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has paid a visit Ahmed Al Ahmed, the hero who disarmed one of the gunmen during the Bondi terror attack.
The prime minister met with the Bondi hero and his family on Tuesday, as the 43-year-old fruit shop owner continues to recover from his injuries at St George Hospital in Sydney, after getting shot in his left shoulder and hand while trying to disarm one of the gunmen.
Ahmed was “just trying to get a cup of coffee” when he bravely snuck up behind gunman Sajid Akram and disarmed him.
“He decided to take action and his bravery is an inspiration for all Australians,” Albanese told reporters outside the hospital.
“Ahmed al-Ahmed represents the best of our country.”
The prime minister also shared a special tribute to Ahmed on social media, sharing footage from his visit alongside the caption: “Ahmed, you are an Australian hero.
“You put yourself at risk to save others, running towards danger on Bondi Beach and disarming a terrorist,” he continued.
“In the worst of times, we see the best of Australians. And that’s exactly what we saw on Sunday night.
“On behalf of every Australian, I say thank you.”
Albanese is the second dignitary to visit him in hospital, just one day after NSW Premier Chris Minns.
A fundraiser has since been set up for Ahmed, gaining the attention of billionaire investors and over $2.3 million raised so far.
At least 15 innocent people were killed during the devastating attack and 40 injured on Sunday when father-and-son Sajid and Naveed Akram fired at a Hanukkah event in Bondi Beach.
Sajid was shot dead at the scene, while Naveed was wounded and taken to hospital in critical condition.
Naveed has since woken up from his coma, with Counter-terrorism detectives expected to attempt to question Akram, as they continue their investigation.
Albanese has said the tragedy highlighted the need to strengthen existing legislation.
“The very nature of our gun laws means that they are only as strong as the weakest link, which is why we want to make sure that they follow Prime Minister Howard’s lead in committing to strengthening the gun laws that were, of course, created in the wake of the Arthur tragedy some 30 years ago,” Albanese said on Tuesday.
Images: Instagram
