Share and Follow
Nine newspapers have highlighted that the Community Security Group, a volunteer-led initiative, classified the event as high risk, recommending a strong police presence throughout its duration.
However, a source revealed that, instead of a dedicated team, “junior officers patrolling Bondi Beach were advised to keep an eye on the event intermittently.”
The NSW Police did not comment, citing that the terror attack is currently under a critical incident investigation, a criminal probe, and a coronial inquest.
Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon explained that the police response is determined by the “threat level perceived at that moment.”
Following the December 14 attack, the NSW government found itself defending the actions of the officers who were present at the scene.
Premier Chris Minns on December 16 said, “The NSW Police acted with bravery and integrity. They didn’t take a backward step”.
Police have increased their security at Cronulla Beach today, after a social media post emerged in the wake of the attack calling for a ”bashing day” 20 years on from the site of the race-fuelled riots.
Police, with help from the riot squad, mounted unit and water police, patrolled the beach.
But it was peaceful, and no “bashing” occurred.
Sutherland Shire Mayor Jack Boyd said police have been monitoring threats closely since the attack at Bondi.
“They’re collaborating to ensure that we can respond if anything did happen. But if you look around, everybody’s just enjoying a day at the beach,” he said.
The man accused of creating that social media post, 20-year-old Ryder Roy Shaw, was charged and has been denied bail at Gosford Court this week.
He will remain behind bars until his next hearing.
Police alleged his post publicly threatened violence on the grounds of race or religion.