Two people arrested after 'shooting' at Sydney's famous Bondi Beach
Two people have been arrested after a reported shooting at Sydney's famous Bondi Beach.
New South Wales (NSW) Police in Australia say they are responding to the 'developing incident' as reports continue to develop.
The force shared on X: "Two people are in police custody at Bondi Beach; however, the police operation is ongoing, and we continue to urge people to avoid the area.
"Please obey ALL police directions. Do not cross police lines."
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In a new update, it has been confirmed by police that two shooters have been 'neutralised' and the force is working to clear the area of suspected improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
The force has also confirmed 'multiple fatalities' but have not given an update about how many people have died.
There is a heavy police presence in the area, as footage circulating on social media appears to show people scattering as multiple gunshots can be heard.
NSW Ambulance reports that multiple patients are being treated at the scene, with six having been transported to hospital. NSW Police have also said that 'anyone at the scene should take shelter'.
Two police officers are reportedly injured with the severity currently unknown. It is also not known at this stage if the incident is connected to the Hanukkah event that was taking place on the beach.
A witness described it as 'terrifying' as she told ABC News they were having dinner in the Icebergs restaurant, which overlooks the beach.
"We thought it was fireworks, but it wasn't — it was something much worse," she explained.
"People started running right up the beach. It was panic, and the panic spread to Icebergs, and people are standing around still not knowing what's going on, so it's scary.
"It felt like it took a long time to hear a siren, we've got a helicopter coming in now and an ambulance is arriving. It's pandemonium and we really don't know what's happening."
NSW Ambulance said that more than 25 resources have been dispatched to the scene, including medical teams, ambulances, helicopters and special operations units.
The police force has asked the media to share the message for 'members of the public to avoid Bondi Beach area as the police operation continues', adding: "We are still asking people in the area to take shelter until we can determine what is happening."
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said in a statement: "The scenes in Bondi are shocking and distressing.
"Police and emergency responders are on the ground working to save lives. My thoughts are with every person affected.
"I just have spoken to the AFP Commissioner and the NSW Premier. We are working with NSW Police and will provide further updates as more information is confirmed.
"I urge people in the vicinity to follow information from the NSW Police."
Jess Battison