Sydney, Australia — The gunman who carried out a deadly mass shooting during a Jewish Hanukkah celebration that killed more than ten at Bondi Beach in Australia has made his first court appearance.
According to international reports, the 24-year old Naveed Akram currently in the custody of the Goulburn Correctional Centre appeared via video link before a Sydney Court.
He is currently facing 59 charges over the December 14 shooting at a Jewish Hanukkah gathering, including 15 counts of murder, 40 counts of wounding with intent to murder, and a terrorism-related offense.
It can be recalled that the attack was carried out with his father, 50-year-old Sajid Akram, who was shot dead during an encounter by police during the crime.
The brief court session focused on procedural matters, including the continuation of suppression orders protecting victims’ identities.
Australian news outlets shared that Akram spoke only to acknowledge he understood the proceedings.
Meanwhile, his defense lawyer made it clear that the case is still in its early stages.
The lawyer also said that he has not spoken yet to his client about the attack.
He indicated that the defense has yet to receive the full brief of evidence and that no decision has been made regarding a plea.
The matter is expected to continue in April.
Meanwhile, a policy plan made by liberal party in Australia has been leaked that proposes a ban on immigrants from several countries with terrorist controlled regions, including the Philippines.
It can be recalled that the Philippine government have confirmed that the father-son in the deadly shooting had visited the country before their attack.