February hearing delayed amid unprecedented investigation of criminal case against alleged Bondi terrorist
Reported by the Guardian ·
Charges and adjournment
Judge Karen Stafford granted an adjournment until February. Prosecutor New said the team needed more time to consult alleged victims and next of kin about the charges before they are certified before the court.
Consultations and court schedule
New said prosecutors did not want to rush the consultations. She also noted that Hanukah was approaching, alongside the Christmas holidays and the courts’ summer shutdown period. The investigation is being conducted by the joint counter-terrorism team. New described it as unprecedented.
Evidence and attack allegations
Police alleged in a December fact sheet that Naveed and his father, Sajid Akram, had planned the attack for many months. The document alleged this included an “ISIS inspired” video, firearm training and the making of explosives.
Key points
- Naveed Akram’s case has been adjourned until February.
- He faces 78 offences, including 19 added in April.
- Prosecutors cited victim and next-of-kin consultations as a reason for more time.
- The evidence brief includes thousands of statements, records and video footage.