live Bondi Beach: Explosive device found in car linked to dead shooter

An explosive device found in a vehicle linked to one of the alleged attackers in Bondi shooting has been secured and removed according to Police. The incident left 12 people dead.

While addressing the Press following the incident Police Commisioner Mal Lyon said police located a vehicle in Campbell Parade in Bondi, which they believe has "several improvised explosive devices".

Lanyon said a rescue bomb disposal unit was at the scene working on the vehicle.

He also said that 29 people in various conditions have been transported to the hospital from the scene. 

Police have now said that the devices have been secured, they are being removed but police investigators are will remain on site throughout the night.

They also confirmed that the shooting incident was a "terrorist attack" targetted at Australia's Jewish community.

In an earlier post on X, News South Wales police said "The police operation is ongoing and we continue to urge people to avoid the area,"

In a different post also via its X account, the Police had earlier urged people to stay away from the area and seek shelter until the situation was under control. 

Israeli President Walter Herzog has called on the Australian President to fight antisemitism after jews were attacked while lighting the first lights of Hanukkah.  

He said "These very moments our sisters and brothers in Sydney, Australia, (are) being attacked by vile terrorists in a very cruel attack on Jews who went to light the first candle of Hanukkah on Bondi Beach."

"Our heart goes out to them. Our heart misses a beat." he added.

According to dpa news agency, the Australian Jewish Association said that there had been a shooting at a public Hanukkah event.

Footage circulating online showed people scattering in different directions while gunshots could be heard in the background. 

 Latest reactions from around the world 

Following are comments from world leaders in the wake of the deadly shooting:

Anthony Albanese, Prime Minister of Australia

"This is a targeted attack on Jewish Australians on the first day of Hanukkah, which should be a day of joy, a celebration of faith.

"At this dark moment for our nation, our police and security agencies are working to determine anyone associated with this outrage."

Sussan Ley Opposition leader of Australia

"Australians are in deep mourning tonight, with hateful violence striking at the heart of an iconic Australian community, a place we all know so well and love, Bondi."

Keir Starmer, UK Prime Minister

“Deeply distressing news from Australia. The United Kingdom sends our thoughts and condolences to everyone affected by the appalling attack in Bondi Beach."

Gideon Sa'ar Foreign Minister of Israel 

"I'm appalled by the murderous shooting attack at a Hanukkah event in Sydney, Australia."

"These are the results of the anti-Semitic rampage in the streets of Australia over the past two years, with the anti-Semitic and inciting calls of 'Globalise the Intifada' that were realised today."

Ursula von der Leyen European Commission President 

"Shocked by the tragic attack at Bondi Beach. I send my heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims."

"Europe stands with Australia and Jewish communities everywhere. We are united against violence, antisemitism and hatred."

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