SYDNEY, Dec 15 (Reuters) – Donations for a Sydney man who wrestled the gun from one of his attackers during a mass attack on Bondi beach have topped A$1.1 million ($744,000) as he recovers in hospital following surgery for gunshot wounds.
Ahmed al Ahmed, 43, a Muslim father of two, hid behind parked cars before attacking one of the gunmen from behind, grabbing his rifle and knocking him to the ground.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Ahmed’s bravery saved lives.
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‘What we saw in the last 24 hours was humanity’s worst terrorist act. But we also saw an example of the best of humanity in Ahmed Al Ahmed running into danger, putting his own life at risk,’ Albanese told state broadcaster ABC News.
He was shot twice by a second criminal, according to Albanese.
Ahmed’s family said he was hit in the hand and arm.
Australian police said Monday that a 50-year-old father and his 24-year-old son carried out the attack at a Jewish celebration on Sunday afternoon, killing 15 people in the country’s worst shooting attack in nearly 30 years.
Hailed as a hero
Ahmed’s father, Mohamed Fateh al Ahmed, told ABC News in an interview that his son is an Australian citizen and sells fruit and vegetables.
‘My son is a hero. He served in the police and has a passion for defending people.’
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‘When he saw the people lying on the ground and the blood, his conscience quickly led him to attack one of the terrorists and take away his weapon,’ said Mohamed Fateh.
Jozay Alkanji, Ahmed’s cousin, said he underwent his first surgery and may need more.
