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Photographer arrested over stolen camera from Bondi mass shooting victim
A 35-year-old man has been charged after allegedly stealing camera equipment belonging to a retired police officer killed in the December Bondi Junction attack, Sydney police said on Wednesday.
Allegations of theft and drug possession
Police allege the accused, who was also working as a photographer at the Hanukkah event where the shooting occurred, took the gear from Peter Meagher, a retired officer and photographer. Meagher was among the 15 people killed when two gunmen opened fire on the crowd on 14 December.
Officers raided the man's home in Sydney's western suburbs, seizing a camera, handcuffs, and electronic devices. A search of his car also uncovered a small quantity of white crystal powder and additional electronics.
The man faces multiple charges, including larceny, disposing of stolen property, possessing a prohibited weapon without a permit, and drug-related offences. He was granted strict conditional bail and is due in court next month.
Family's plea for return of missing camera
In March, Meagher's wife, Virginia, posted a public appeal on Facebook, urging the return of her husband's camera. She wrote that it was clear someone had taken the equipment from Archer Park, where the attack occurred, rather than an official authority.
"I would very much like to have his camera returned."
Virginia Meagher, Facebook post, March 2026
Hero's brothers charged with extortion threats
Separately, two brothers of Bondi attack hero Ahmed Al Ahmed have been charged with allegedly threatening and attempting to extort money from him. Ahmed, a Syrian-Australian shop owner, was hailed for tackling one of the gunmen, Sajid Akram, during the attack, disarming him despite being shot multiple times.
His actions sparked widespread support, leading to a fundraiser that raised over AU$2.5 million ($1.8 million; £1.2 million) for his recovery. Ahmed has since undergone several surgeries on his injured arm.
Alleged threats and demands
Earlier this month, Ahmed reported to police that his brothers, Hozifa and Sameh Al Ahmed, had threatened him and demanded a share of the donations. Court documents state the brothers moved to Australia after the attack and lived with Ahmed before tensions escalated, forcing him to relocate.
On 7 May, Hozifa allegedly called Ahmed, making violent threats. According to court records, he said: "I will put your head under my boot, break your other arm, and smash your face. We will only leave if you give us $100,000 each."
Shortly after, Sameh is alleged to have called with a similar demand: "If you want peace of mind and to be safe, you will give us $100,000 each."
Legal proceedings
The brothers pleaded not guilty to charges of using a carriage service to harass or offend. They are due back in court in July and have been issued interim apprehended domestic violence orders, barring them from contacting Ahmed.
