Australian authorities are examining the possibility of a gender-related assault following a tragic incident where a man stabbed six individuals to death and inflicted injuries, predominantly on women.
The attack, which occurred at a bustling shopping center in Bondi, a beachside suburb of Sydney, has prompted nationwide mourning as the country grapples with the loss of life. Notably, five of the six fatalities and a majority of the 12 injured individuals were women. Investigators have concluded their on-site evidence collection at the Westfield Bondi Junction Mall.
New South Wales Police Commissioner Karen Webb acknowledged the apparent focus on women by the perpetrator, Joel Cauchi, 40, who was wearing shorts and an Australian national rugby league jersey during the rampage. Inspector Amy Scott bravely confronted Cauchi alone and fatally shot him to end the violence. Cauchi had a history of mental health challenges, and authorities have found no evidence suggesting an ideological motive behind the attack.
Such acts of violence are uncommon in Australia, a nation known for its stringent gun and knife laws, and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed concern over the gender disparity in the casualties. The New South Wales Police are actively investigating whether gender was a motivating factor in the attack.
It's noteworthy that the only male victim was a mall security guard. The nation is in mourning, with flags flying at half-mast, including at prominent landmarks like Parliament House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. The Sydney Opera House will also pay tribute to the victims by lighting its sails with a black ribbon.
In addition, Chinese state media reported that one Chinese citizen lost their life in the attack, while another sustained injuries, underscoring the global impact of the tragedy.
