By Patrick Idowu
At least 11 people were killed and several others injured on Sunday during a shooting at a Hanukkah celebration near Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia.
New South Wales Police said two suspects were arrested following the attack, which occurred around 7 p.m. local time.
The shooting targeted a crowd gathered for the Jewish festival at the popular beachfront area.
Eyewitness videos posted online showed two men standing on a footbridge linking Campbell Parade to the Bondi Pavilion, firing into the crowd as people screamed and fled for safety.
One bystander was seen confronting and disarming one of the gunmen.
Emergency services rushed to the scene, with victims treated on the grass at North Bondi and others taken away in ambulances.
Police confirmed the arrests but said the operation was ongoing. “Two people are in custody at Bondi Beach; however, the police operation is continuing.
“We urge the public to avoid the area and follow all police directions,” NSW Police said in a statement.
Authorities advised residents to remain sheltered until the area was declared safe.
Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem in the 2nd century BCE.
