Bondi Beach terror attack: ISIS flag found in car linked to suspects; probe underway

Day after the deadly terror attack at the Bondi Beach in Australia’s Sydney that claimed 16 lives, Australian agencies have started a probe to find out whether the suspects were linked to the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) after reports have emerged that a flag of the extremist group was recovered from the car of the attackers. 

Speaking at a press conference along with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Monday, New South Wales police commissioner Mal Lanyon said the authorities are ‘thoroughly’ conducting an investigation. When asked whether the suspects had ‘extremist views’, he avoided commenting and said he will be happy to provide further information following a probe.

“We did hear last night a lot of information was coming forward. I want to make sure that it’s accurate,” Lanyon said. “That’s all part of the investigation. As I just said before, I’d rather not comment on that right at the moment. Obviously, we will look at the motives behind this attack and I think that’s really important as part of the investigation. Our investigation will be thorough and we will be happy to provide further information.”  

Suspect had armed license

During the presser, Lanyon said the suspects were a father-son duo. He said the 50-year-old father, who was neutralised by the police, was a licenced firearms holder and had six firearms licenced to him. Condemning the attack, the official said it is a ‘difficult time’ for Australian agencies, as he prayed for those who were killed.

The death count stands at 16 at present after the father-son duo attacked the Hanukkah celebration on Sunday. This includes a 10-year-old. However, officials fear that the count may rise as many injured are in critical condition.

“This is a time for community to grieve and to heal. The New South Wales Police will do what it does best and that is to prevent but investigate offences that happen. And we will be here to support the (Jewish) community,” the New South Wales police commissioner said.