At least 10 dead, 2 arrested after mass shooting in Australia

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 14 (KUNA) -- Australian police announced on Sunday that at least 10 people were killed and 16 others injured, with two suspects arrested, following a shooting incident in the Bondi Beach area of Sydney.
Authorities issued urgent warnings urging residents to remain indoors and avoid the area until security operations are concluded.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said in a statement that the incident was shocking and deeply distressing, adding that police and emergency response teams are doing all they can to save lives.
He noted that he has spoken with the Commissioner of the Australian Federal Police and the Premier of New South Wales, and said the government would issue further updates as soon as additional official information is confirmed. Albanese also called on everyone in the area to strictly follow instructions issued by New South Wales Police.
According to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), police confirmed that at least 10 people were killed, while the exact number of casualties is still being verified, 16 injured individuals were rushed to several hospitals for urgent treatment.
In a statement, New South Wales Police said the situation no longer constitutes an active threat following the arrest of two suspects. However, authorities urged civilians to continue complying with police instructions and to stay away from the scene, stressing that the operation remains ongoing.
Investigations include reviewing surveillance camera footage, interviewing witnesses, and determining the sequence of events and possible motives.
Police added that specialized units were deployed to search nearby buildings, the vicinity of Bondi Park, and a small bridge where the gunmen were reportedly seen, and area sweeps will continue until all potential risks are fully eliminated.
Australian media outlets published images and video footage showing paramedics treating the wounded at the scene before transporting them to hospitals. Helicopters, ambulances, and special operations units were also seen across the beachfront area, while police continued to comb the site-particularly the small bridge adjacent to the park-where witnesses reported seeing two shooters dressed in black. (pickup previous) aab.dss