Ahmed Al Ahmed was hailed a hero after wrestling an active gunman who killed 15 people on Australia’s Bondi Beach in December 2025, but the dad-of-two has spoken out after being charged with assault by police.
The 44-year-old shopkeeper put himself in harm’s way on 14 December 2025 when he tackled the shooter from behind and managed to wrestle the weapon away as the attack unfolded.
Ahmed was shot during the incident, suffering serious injuries that initially raised fears doctors may need to amputate his arm. After several operations, surgeons were able to save the limb.
Now, six months after the deadly attack — and after supporters donated more than $2 million in recognition of his actions — Ahmed has been charged by police with assault, relating to an incident alleged to involve his father.
NSW Police said in a statement: “On Wednesday 3 June 2026, a 44-year-old man was served with a Court Attendance Notice for common assault (DV) and stalk/intimidate intend fear physical etc harm (domestic).”
Police added that the father-of-two is due to appear at Bankstown Local Court on 29 July.
Ahmed has since responded publicly, saying he feels “disappointed” and “upset” by what has been alleged.
Speaking to Australian radio station 2GB, he said: “Honestly, I’m disappointed. And my anxiety and this situation cause for me stress and put me in the anxiety, deep, deep.”
Referring to the alleged assault, Ahmed added: “I never, never did anything. It’s untrue.
“Everything is a lie. I’m not a violent guy, I don’t deserve to be treated like this.”
The 44-year-old became emotional while speaking about how his life has changed since the Bondi attack, describing it as a “second chance”.
“I have been looking after my health, trying to work in peace, helping my finger to get movement because I lost the sensitivity of my finger,” he said.
In the wake of the charges, police have also sought an Apprehended Violence Order (AVO) to protect Ahmed’s father.
The order states that he must not “assault, stalk, harass, or contact” his father, and must remain 100 metres away from where he lives and works.
Previously, when speaking about confronting the gunman, Ahmed explained his focus in the moment: “My target was just to take the gun from him, and to stop him from killing a human being’s life and not killing innocent people.
“I know I saved lots, but I feel sorry for the lost.”