At least 12 people dead as Bondi attack declared act of terrorism

Key Highlights

• (ABC News: Victoria Pengilley)Terrorist incident declaredCommissioner Lanyon said that, due to a number of circumstances, he had declared it a terrorist attack."Obviously, the fact that it's the first day of Hanukkah, the types of weapons, the offenders, some of the other items that we found at the scene," he said."We have found an improvised explosive device in a car which is linked to the deceased offender."The Jewish community has a right to feel safe."He said one of the offenders had "very, very little knowledge to the police", and he was not someone "that we would have automatically been looking at at this time". When asked about reports of a third shooter, Commissioner Lanyon said police needed to get the investigation right."Often in this sort of situation, a lot of things happen at once," Commissioner Lanyon said."We need to make sure that we get this information right."Loading... He added that he had authorised special powers to "ensure that if there is a third offender" police would "prevent any further activity". Commissioner Lanyon said the counterterrorism command would lead the investigation with the support of the state crime command."No stone will be left unturned.
• This type of disgraceful activity, this wanton use of violence, the taking of innocent lives is unacceptable to New South Wales," he said. The commissioner said he did not believe any children were among the dead, but a child was transported to hospital. He called for calm and said he wanted to "make sure that there is no retribution" within the community. NSW Police said on Sunday 12 people, including one of the shooters, died in the Bondi Beach attack.
• (ABC News: Isobel Roe)Premier condemns attackNSW Premier Chris Minns called the incident an "evil attack"."What should have been a night of peace and joy celebrated in that community with families and supporters has been shattered by this horrifying evil attack," Mr Minns said."Our heart bleeds for Australia's Jewish community tonight.
• I can only imagine the pain that they're feeling right now to see their loved ones killed as they celebrate this ancient holiday."He assured the community there would be a massive and comprehensive public order response from the police.
• "This is a massive, complex and just beginning investigation.