Bondi Beach Hero Receives Massive Reward
Ahmed Al Ahmed, the fruit shop owner who risked his life to disarm a terrorist during the Bondi Beach massacre, has been honored with a staggering reward from one of the richest men on Earth. The 43-year-old became a national hero after tackling one of the shooters and ripping the weapon from his hands during a Hanukkah celebration that ended in tragedy. Ahmed was shot twice and remains in the hospital, recovering.
Heroism Captured on Camera
Dramatic footage shows Ahmed tackling the gunman from behind, his courage likely saving countless lives. Two attackers were responsible for the massacre, leaving 15 people dead—including a 10-year-old girl and a Holocaust survivor—and injuring at least 42 others.
Global Support and GoFundMe Surge
Within 48 hours, a GoFundMe campaign in Ahmed’s honor soared past $1.3 million. U.S. billionaire Bill Ackman contributed $99,999 to the fund. The campaign page praised Ahmed’s bravery:
“After witnessing the extraordinary actions of the hero who disarmed one of the attackers, we felt compelled to act. This GoFundMe is created to show our gratitude and support for someone who demonstrated incredible courage when it mattered most.”
Ackman, worth over $9.5 billion, said he was deeply moved by Ahmed’s actions. “Can someone please set up a verified [GoFundMe] so we can reward him and his family,” he wrote on social media before donating.
International Praise
Even U.S. President Donald Trump acknowledged Ahmed’s heroism, calling him “a very brave person who saved a lot of lives.”
Attackers and Ongoing Investigation
Authorities identified the gunmen as father and son Sajid and Naveed Akram. Sajid was shot and killed by police, while Naveed remains in critical condition. Police also discovered and safely disarmed two live improvised explosive devices. Authorities confirmed that Sajid legally owned six firearms and held a recreational hunting license.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the attack as “an act of pure evil, an act of antisemitism, an act of terrorism on our shores,” and confirmed that stricter gun laws would be discussed during an emergency national Cabinet meeting.
Family of Attacker Speaks
Naveed Akram’s mother, Verena, spoke to the Sydney Morning Herald, insisting she did not believe her son was capable of violence. She recalled his last call:
“He rings me up and said, ‘Mum, I just went for a swim. I went scuba diving. We’re going to eat now.’”
She described him as a quiet, disciplined young man who “doesn’t drink, smoke, or go to bad places. He goes to work, comes home, and exercises. Anyone would wish to have a son like my son… he’s a good boy.”
Police confirmed that Naveed may face criminal charges if he recovers, according to CBS News.
