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Alsharq Tribune- Sarah Benkraouda
Two people have been arrested after gunmen opened fire at Sydney's iconic Bondi Beach. Cops have swarmed to the scene as horror social media footage shows beachgoers fleeing for their lives. Police have told people to avoid the area and take shelter as they battle to get a grip on the situation.
New South Wales Police said: "Police are responding to a developing incident at Bondi Beach and are urging the public to AVOID the area. Anyone at the scene should take shelter. Police are on scene and more information will be provided when it comes to hand."
Footage shared on social media shows a huge police response being scrambled to the area, popular with locals and tourists. Around 50 gunshots were reportedly heard.
Witnesses have said a male stepped out of a vehicle in Campbell Parade and opened fire. Further footage from the scene showed two people in black firing at the beach. It is feared the gunmen may have been targeting members of the Jewish community attending a Hannukah party, the Jerusalem Post reports.
A social media post previously advertised a Chanukah by the sea event to be held at the Bondi Beach playground.
One beachgoer posted on social media: "I was there. Two shooters on the bridge with many gunshots being shot towards a Jewish Festival.
Gunshots went for ages." In a further update, NSW Police said: "Please share our message for members of the public to avoid Bondi Beach area as the police operation continues.
"We are still asking people in the area to take shelter until we can determine what is happening. We have media officer en route to scene, more information when confirmed."
Harrowing social media footage shows police officers performing CPR on two men on a bridge leading to the beach. Other officers are also attending to another man.
In a statement, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said: "We are aware of an active security situation in Bond. We urge people in the vicinity to follow information from NSW Police.
" Video purporting to be from Bondi Beach on Sunday appeared to show gunshots and people fleeing from the beach. In another video, two men – one appearing to be armed with a shotgun – can be seen firing towards the beach as people can be heard screaming.
At least 12 shots can be heard before the video ends. Bondi Beach, located in the city's eastern suburbs, is an iconic spot beloved by locals and tourists. It is one of the most famous beaches in the world, renowned for its laid back vibe and golden sands.
