Source The Hindu
SYDNEY – In the wake of a harrowing terrorist attack at Australia’s iconic Bondi Beach, a new story of civilian bravery has emerged. Amandeep Singh-Bola, a 34-year-old personal trainer of Indian origin, is being hailed as a hero for his role in restraining one of the gunmen during the chaos that gripped the shoreline.
From Sunset to Siege
The afternoon began peacefully for Mr. Singh-Bola, who was enjoying a meal and watching the sunset. The serenity was shattered by what he initially mistook for fireworks. As the crowd began to scream and scatter, the reality of a coordinated attack became clear.
While most fled for safety, Singh-Bola describes experiencing a sense of “tunnel vision.” Driven by an instinct to protect others, he moved toward the gunfire rather than away from it.
“I was just trying to find out where he was,” Singh-Bola told local media. “Once I saw him, nothing else really mattered. I wanted to help get him down, or just help anybody that needed help.”
The Confrontation on the Bridge
The attacker, later identified by police as Sajid Akram, was firing from a bridge overlooking the crowded beach area. As a responding police officer engaged the suspect, Singh-Bola seized a window of opportunity to intervene physically.
The Tackle: Singh-Bola sprinted toward the gunman and leaped onto him, pinning his arms to the ground.
The Restraint: Despite the immense danger, he held the suspect down while the officer secured the weapon.
The Aftermath: Singh-Bola remained on top of the assailant even after the threat was neutralized, ensuring he could not reach for another concealed weapon.
“The police officer helped me and said, ‘Don’t let him go,'” Singh-Bola recalled. “I felt him go limp under me. It’s a moment I won’t ever forget.”
A “Bondi Hero” Emerges
The attack, which authorities have linked to Islamic State-inspired extremism, was reportedly carried out by Sajid Akram and his 24-year-old son, Naveed. While the investigation into their radicalization continues, the focus of the nation has shifted to the “Bondi Heroes”—civilians who refused to remain bystanders.
Amandeep Singh-Bola, born in New Zealand to a Kiwi mother and an Indian father, has lived in Australia for years. His actions have been praised by the community as a testament to the courage of the Australian-Indian diaspora.
Australian Federal Police officials noted that the intervention of civilians like Singh-Bola undoubtedly prevented a higher death toll in what was one of the most brazen attacks on Australian soil in recent years.
