Prosecutors amass over 800 witness statements in case against man accused of Sydney massacre

Prosecutors in Sydney have amassed over 800 witness statements in the case against Naveed Akram, who faces 78 charges, including murder, for a December 14 massacre at Bondi Beach. The attack, allegedly inspired by the Islamic State group, involved Akram and his father throwing four improvised explosive devices that failed to detonate. Akram appeared briefly in court via video link, with the case adjourned until October 28 for prosecutors to provide an update on their progress. Evidence examined includes witness statements, video, ballistics, and data from seven electronic devices, with more data and an IED testing report yet to be reviewed. Akram's father was killed in a gunbattle with police during the incident, and Akram was wounded.

Ahmed al Ahmed, who was recognized for disarming a gunman during the Bondi Beach shooting, has had assault charges against him dropped. He was charged in June with domestic violence common assault, stalking, and intimidation following an alleged incident with his father in March at a Sydney home. Ahmed denied these charges. On Wednesday, prosecutors withdrew the charges in a Sydney court after an agreement was reached for Ahmed to abide by a 12-month apprehended domestic violence order, restricting his contact with his father. The order was accepted without admissions of guilt. Ahmed expressed his relief at being a "free man" and hoped for "peace."