15/12/2025
The fundraiser for the man who overpowered one of the gunmen in Sydney on Sunday has now raised AUD $1 million (approximately €566,000). The man was previously called "a hero."
Those involved have set up a crowdfunding campaign to support the man. The man is 43-year-old fruit farmer, Ahmed Al Ahmed. The footage below shows him grabbing one of the gunmen from behind and snatching the gun from his hands. He then points it at the gunman, who runs away. The man then leans the weapon against a tree.
After being overpowered, Al Ahmed himself was shot several times by the second gunman. According to his family, the man has undergone the first surgery and is recovering.
The fruit farmer's parents told the Australian ABC that their son was having coffee with a friend at the time of the shooting. He reportedly saw one of the gunmen behind a tree when the latter ran out of ammunition.
Fruit grower praised for heroism
The man is widely praised for his heroism. "His actions were selfless, instinctive, and undeniably heroic, without regard for his own safety," the fundraising page states. With the campaign, the initiators want to show their gratitude "to someone who showed exceptional courage when it mattered most."
Premier Chris Minns of the state of New South Wales, which includes Sydney, previously called Al Ahmed "a true hero." "Many people are still alive because of his courage." Minns called the footage "the most incredible thing I've ever seen."
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also praised "all Australians who risked their lives trying to help others" at a press conference. "They are heroes who, with their courage, saved lives."
