The criminal proceedings against Naveed Akram, accused of carrying out the deadly attack at a Hanukkah festival in Bondi, have been delayed amid what prosecutors describe as an “unprecedented” investigation. The case will not resume in Sydney’s Downing Centre Local Court until February 24, following an adjournment granted on Wednesday.

Akram, 24, and his father, Sajid Akram, 50, are alleged to have opened fire on December 14 at the Bondi Beach festival, killing 15 people and injuring 40 others. Sajid Akram was fatally shot by police at the scene, while Naveed Akram survived and faces 78 charges, including 15 counts of murder and one count of committing a terrorist act. Authorities claim the attack was inspired by the Islamic State group.

Initially charged with 59 offences in December, Naveed Akram has since had an additional 19 charges added as the investigation has progressed. Prosecutor Danielle New requested the adjournment to allow investigators more time to consult with victims and their families and to complete the certification of charges, a formal step required before moving forward to trial. Akram has yet to enter a plea.

New emphasized that the prosecution team did not wish to rush the process, particularly with the Hanukkah and Christmas periods approaching, as well as the summer court recess. She highlighted the importance of ensuring all victims’ accounts are incorporated thoroughly.

The investigation’s scope has been substantial, with the prosecution’s brief of evidence comprising thousands of witness statements, medical and financial records, footage from the attack night, and details about purchases allegedly made by the accused. New described the operation by the joint counter-terrorism team as “unprecedented” in scale and praised their professionalism.

According to a police fact sheet issued in December, the attackers are alleged to have spent months planning the assault. Elements of the preparation reportedly included firearms training, bomb-making, and producing an “ISIS-inspired” video. The pair also allegedly carried out reconnaissance two days before the attack, including a visit to the site from which they allegedly fired on festival attendees.

The next court hearing on February 24 will focus on certifying the charges against Naveed Akram before the trial proceeds.