The hero who intervened during the deadly Bondi beach attack has given his first detailed interview, describing the moment his instinct to save lives overcame the danger he faced.
'I didn't worry about anything'
In an emotional interview with CBS News, Ahmed al-Ahmed recounted his attempt to stop the gunman at a Hanukah event on 14 December. The 44-year-old tobacco shop owner, who was getting coffee with his cousin when the shooting began, said his only thought was to prevent further loss of life.
"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," Ahmed stated. He added, "I know I saved lots, but I feel sorry for the lost."
The struggle caught on camera
Footage from the attack, shared globally, shows Ahmed leaping from behind a parked car to grapple with Sajid Akram. During the struggle, the gunman's weapon was knocked to the ground. Ahmed picked it up and pointed it at Akram, who retreated to his son on a nearby footbridge.
"I jumped in his back, hit him. I hold him with my right hand and start saying a word, you know, like to warn him, 'drop your gun, stop doing what you’re doing'," Ahmed told CBS. He described a powerful surge of emotion driving his actions: "I don’t want to see people killed in front of me... that’s my soul asking me to do that."
Recovery and recognition
Shortly after wrestling with Akram, Ahmed was shot five times. He has undergone three rounds of surgery in a Sydney hospital and is recovering, though nerve damage means his left arm may not regain normal function for at least six months.
His bravery has been widely celebrated. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese visited him in hospital, praising his "strong" heart and "inspiring" courage. Other dignitaries who have visited include NSW Premier Chris Minns, Governor-General Sam Mostyn, and David Ossip from the NSW Jewish Board of Deputies.
A GoFundMe fundraiser for Ahmed has raised an astonishing $2.5 million. His Sutherland shop, where hundreds have left tributes, is unlikely to reopen soon as he focuses on rest and time with his family.
Sajid Akram was shot dead by police during the attack, which claimed 15 lives. His son, Naveed Akram, was wounded and later charged with 59 offences.
