Ahmed al-Ahmed, the 44-year-old celebrated for his bravery during the Bondi Beach terror attack in December, has pleaded not guilty to an assault charge in Bankstown Local Court. The charge stems from an alleged incident on March 9 at his father's home in southwestern Sydney.
Al-Ahmed denies allegations of assault and stalking
Al-Ahmed pleaded not guilty to domestic violence common assault and stalking or intimidation. His lawyer, Mohamad Sakr, stated outside court: “My client maintains his plea … the presumption of innocence should be maintained and upheld. I believe the prosecution’s case bears some issues and over the next few weeks those issues will be lavished.”
The allegations include that al-Ahmed placed his father, Mohammad Fadeh al-Ahmed, in a headlock. An apprehended violence order (AVO) has been issued against al-Ahmed, requiring him to stay at least 100 meters away from his father's home and workplace.
Father expresses hope for resolution
Mohammad Fadeh al-Ahmed told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC): “God willing it will all be resolved. After all there's nothing more precious than your child.”
NSW Police confirmed that on June 3, al-Ahmed was served with a Court Attendance Notice for common assault (DV) and stalk/intimidate intend fear physical etc harm (domestic). The police statement noted that the report of the alleged assault was received on March 9.
Background: The Bondi Beach terror attack
In December, al-Ahmed intervened during a terror attack at Bondi Beach, grappling a firearm from a gunman. His actions are credited with preventing further casualties, though he sustained multiple gunshot wounds. The attacker, Sajid Akram, was shot dead by police, and his son Naveed Akram has been charged with 59 offences, including terrorism.
In a post-attack interview, al-Ahmed said: “My target was just to take the gun from him, and to stop him from killing a human being's life and not killing innocent people. I know I saved lots, but I feel sorry for the lost.”
Recognition and current status
Al-Ahmed received the Keys to the City of Canterbury-Bankstown and walked onto the pitch during the final Test of the Ashes series. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese visited him in hospital, calling him the “best of our country.”
Speaking to 2GB radio presenter Ben Fordham, al-Ahmed said: “I don't deserve to be treated like this. Since the situation in Bondi, I've been given a second chance in life.”
Al-Ahmed is scheduled to appear before Bankstown Local Court on July 29.
