Photographer Arrested for Theft Following Bondi Beach Shooting
A 35-year-old photographer has been arrested and charged after allegedly stealing camera equipment from a victim of the Bondi beach shooting, which resulted in 15 fatalities. The incident occurred days after the mass shooting at a Hanukkah event.
Police conducted a raid on the man’s residence in Sydney’s western suburbs on Wednesday, recovering a camera, handcuffs, and electronic devices. Authorities claim the stolen equipment belonged to Peter Meagher, a retired police officer and photographer who was killed during the attack.
Meagher was attending the Hanukkah event as a photographer when two gunmen reportedly opened fire on the crowd. The accused was also working as a photographer at the event, according to police statements. Following his arrest, the man was granted strict conditional bail and is scheduled to appear in court next month.
The charges brought against the man include larceny, disposing of stolen property, possessing or using a prohibited weapon without a permit, and supply and possession of a prohibited drug.
Charges Against Brothers of Bondi Hero Ahmed Al Ahmed
Separately, two brothers of Ahmed Al Ahmed, a recognized hero from the Bondi shooting, have been charged with threatening and attempting to extort money from him.
Ahmed Al Ahmed, a Syrian-Australian shop owner, gained national attention after he confronted one of the gunmen, Sajid Akram, during the attack on 14 December. Ahmed wrestled a gun from the attacker and was shot multiple times while trying to stop the violence. His courageous actions sparked widespread support, leading to a fundraiser that raised over AU$2.5 million (approximately $1.8 million or £1.2 million) for his recovery.
Earlier this month, Ahmed reported to police that his brothers, Hozifa Al Ahmed and Sameh Al Ahmed, had threatened him and demanded a share of the donations he received. Court documents reveal that the brothers moved to Australia after the shooting and initially lived with Ahmed. However, the relationship deteriorated, prompting Ahmed to relocate to a different property.
On 7 May, Hozifa allegedly contacted Ahmed, issuing threats and demanding money. According to court documents, Hozifa said:
"I will put your head under my boot, break your other arm, and smash your face. We will only leave if you give us $100,000 each."
Shortly thereafter, Sameh is alleged to have made a similar call to Ahmed, stating:
"If you want peace of mind and to be safe, you will give us $100,000 each."
Both brothers appeared in court on Wednesday facing charges of using a carriage service to harass or offend. They have pleaded not guilty and are due to return to court in July.
Interim apprehended domestic violence orders were issued against the brothers, requiring them to maintain distance from Ahmed.
