Bondi Beach Hero: Brave Detective Senior Constable Cesar Barraza Identified as Officer Who Took Down Terrorist Sajid Akram in Dramatic Shootout
- Detective Senior Constable Cesar Barraza, a 16-year veteran, has been named as the plain-clothes officer who shot and killed terrorist Sajid Akram during the horrific Bondi Beach attack
- The 50-year-old terrorist and his son Naveed, 24, killed 15 people during the Hannukah event ambush, but were taken down by Barraza’s quick thinking and bravery
- The detective, known as ‘Cess’, was featured on reality TV show The Recruits in the 2000s, where he expressed his passion for fighting crime and making a difference
In a moment of sheer bravery, Detective Senior Constable Cesar Barraza put himself in harm’s way to take down terrorist Sajid Akram, ending the horrors of the Bondi Beach attack. The 16-year veteran has been identified as the plain-clothes officer who shot and killed the 50-year-old gunman, who along with his son Naveed, 24, killed 15 people during the Hannukah event ambush.
Footage captured Barraza, a local detective, exposing himself to danger by moving into position next to a tree and firing towards the bridge from about 40 metres away. Sajid appeared to be fatally struck by a bullet, and Naveed was also wounded seconds later.
In a heart-wrenching development, Barraza’s actions have been praised by NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon, who said, “At the moment, I’ve seen the video that’s there. I’m very proud of all of our officers, and the officer that you are talking about.”
Barraza’s backstory is one of passion and dedication to fighting crime. Speaking on The Recruits in the 2000s, he said, “I’m Cess Barazza. I’m 26 and I want to be a police officer because I hate crime.” He added, “When I see someone run a red light, I want to be able to pull them over right there and give them a ticket or at least cut their licence.”
Meanwhile, two police officers shot during the attack remain in intensive care in hospital. Probationary Constable Jack Hibbert, 22, has extensive eye injuries after being shot repeatedly in the face, while Constable Scott Dyson is recovering from horrific injuries to his shoulder. Both officers were hailed as heroes for their bravery during the attack.