Sydney(FNO): Australia was rocked by a deadly mass shooting after two gunmen opened fire at Sydney’s iconic Bondi Beach, leaving at least 12 people dead, including one of the attackers, according to initial reports.

Witnesses said chaos erupted as the assailants fired indiscriminately, with around 50 shots reportedly discharged, sending beachgoers and nearby residents fleeing in panic. Emergency services rushed to the scene as police launched a major security operation to neutralise the threat and evacuate the area.

Authorities confirmed that multiple people sustained serious injuries and were taken to nearby hospitals, while one of the shooters was killed during the police response. The condition of the second gunman was not immediately clear.

The motive behind the attack remains unknown, and officials said an investigation is underway to establish the sequence of events and whether the incident was terror-related.

Bondi Beach, one of Australia’s most popular tourist destinations, was placed under lockdown as forensic teams combed the area. Police have urged the public to avoid the vicinity and rely only on official updates.

More details are awaited as authorities continue to assess the situation.