Police Scotland urges public to 'remain alert' after Hanukkah terror attack in Australia

Police Scotland is urging the public to “remain alert” following a Hanukkah terror attack on Bondi Beach in Australia.

At least 12 people have died after a shooting at Sydney’s Bondi Beach on Sunday, which authorities have said was a terrorist attack against the Jewish community.

New South Wales Premier Chris Minns confirmed in a press conference that one of the gunmen was dead, and another was in custody.

Police said earlier on Sunday that the second shooter was in critical condition after being injured.

A total of 29 people have been taken to hospital, including two police officers, in the latest update from authorities.

New South Wales Police have said the number of casualties is expected to change as the operation continues.

Police added that they had found what they believe to be several improvised explosive devices in a car nearby, and bomb disposal units are working to make them safe.

Emergency services were called to the scene at 6.45pm local time, after reports of gunfire.

Police Scotland has confirmed that they are carrying out patrols near Synagogues and are in close contact with faith leaders.

Assistant Chief Constable Steve Johnson stated that they have no intelligence regarding a threat in Scotland, however, any suspicious activity should be reported.

He said: “Our thoughts are with the Jewish community, the victims, families, and everyone affected by the incident in Australia.

“Officers are already carrying out additional and dedicated patrols around synagogues and other Jewish venues as part of our existing policing plan for Hanukkah.

“Following the incident, we are actively communicating with faith leaders and community leaders.

“We are also engaging with a wide range of local, national and international partners to ensure our communities are safe.

“While there is no intelligence to suggest any specific threat in Scotland, I want to take this opportunity to ask the public to remain alert but not alarmed. You should remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to Police Scotland.

“Policing in Scotland has strong relationships with the public and we are grateful for the ongoing support of all our communities.”