The estranged wife of the man suspected of carrying out a deadly terror attack at Bondi Beach has refused to accept responsibility for his body, as new details emerge about his transient living situation in the months leading up to the massacre.
Wife Severs Ties, Opts for State Burial
Verna, the estranged wife of alleged gunman Sajid Akram, has stated she wants 'nothing to do with him' in the wake of the horrific events. A week after the attack on December 14, Sajid Akram's body remains at the coroner's morgue. His wife has formally signed his remains over to the government, authorising a 'destitute burial'.
This decision underscores the complete breakdown of family ties following the attack, which police believe was inspired by the ISIS terrorist group. The shooting at the Chanukah By The Sea event resulted in the tragic loss of 15 innocent lives.
Homeless and Moving Between Short-Term Rentals
In a shocking revelation, Verna disclosed that her husband had been effectively homeless in the half-year preceding the attack. Rather than having a fixed address, Sajid Akram had been moving between various Airbnb properties across Sydney's southwestern suburbs.
His last known residence was a short-term rental located in the suburb of Campsie. This nomadic existence highlights potential gaps in monitoring individuals of concern and raises questions about the use of short-term rental platforms by those seeking to avoid detection.
Charges Laid and Ongoing Investigation
Sajid Akram was shot and killed by police officers during the incident on December 14. His son, 24-year-old Naveed Akram, who allegedly opened fire at the event alongside his father, survived and has since been charged with a total of 59 offences.
These charges are severe and comprehensive, including:
- 15 counts of murder
- One count of committing a terrorist act
- A multitude of other related charges
Following the shootings, other family members were escorted from the scene by authorities, as seen in media footage. The investigation into the attack's planning, motivation, and potential networks continues as the community and nation grapple with the aftermath.
