Court grants anonymity to Bondi attack witnesses amid ongoing safety concerns

A Sydney court has granted anonymity to twenty witnesses in the Bondi Beach terror attack case, with a judge finding there is a "real risk to the physical safety of witnesses" if their identities are publicly disclosed.

The interim suppression order was made by Judge Karen Stafford at Downing Centre Local Court as Naveed Akram, the alleged gunman, faces 78 charges relating to the December 14 attack at a Hanukkah event that killed 15 people and wounded several others.

Psychological trauma and security threats cited

Judge Stafford cited evidence from the Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion in her ruling, noting that releasing witnesses' identities without consent could exacerbate the psychological trauma associated with experiencing a mass shooting.

"There's a real risk to the physical safety of witnesses," the judge said, pointing to the escalation of antisemitic incidents that preceded the December attack.

The Royal Commission inquiry, which was established following the Bondi attack, has heard evidence across multiple hearings in Sydney and Melbourne. The fifth block of the inquiry is currently being heard in the Victorian capital this week, examining the circumstances surrounding the attack and broader questions of community safety and social cohesion.

Ongoing threats to Jewish community

The court's decision reflects ongoing security concerns within New South Wales' Jewish community nearly eight months after the attack. Judge Stafford's reference to continuing antisemitic threats suggests that the threat environment remains elevated, despite the arrest and detention of the alleged perpetrator.

The anonymity order represents a significant protective measure in a case that has drawn intense public and media attention. It allows witnesses to participate in proceedings and give evidence whilst shielding them from potential harassment or threats.

Legal proceedings continue

Akram did not appear in person at Wednesday's hearing and is scheduled to appear via audio-visual link on August 12. His continued absence from court, combined with the court's protective measures for witnesses, underscores the sensitive security environment surrounding the case.

The suppression order is interim in nature, suggesting that the court may revisit the question of witness anonymity as the case progresses through the legal system.

Source: ABC News