Members of Australia’s Ahmadiyya community held a solemn vigil on Sunday evening to remember the victims of Saturday’s Bondi Junction massacre that left six innocent people dead, including Ahmadi Muslim and refugee Faraz Tahir.
The 30-year-old man was working as a security guard at the Westfield shopping centre when Queensland man Joel Cauchi rampaged through the centre with a knife, leaving a trail of carnage.
Cauchi murdered Mr Tahir, who had only arrived in Australia about a year ago from Sri Lanka via the UNHCR.
Photos from the vigil show the Ahmadi Muslims gathering before a floral tribute at Bondi Junction in eastern Sydney and praying silently to remember the lives lost.
“It is with heavy hearts that we also mourn the loss of Faraz Tahir, a cherished member of our community and a dedicated security guard who tragically lost his life while serving the public during this attack,” the community said before the vigil.
“Faraz Tahir, aged 30, sought refuge in Australia just a year ago, fleeing persecution in his home country of Pakistan.
“He quickly became an integral part of our community, known for his unwavering dedication and kindness.
“Faraz was not only a valued member of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community of Australia but also actively contributed to the charitable endeavours of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth organisation.”
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Faraz’s family and loved ones during this difficult time, as well as with all the other victims and their families affected by this senseless act of violence,” the community said.
“We extend our deepest condolences and stand in solidarity with the broader community as we come together to support one another in the face of tragedy.
“We commend the swift response of the authorities and offer our full co-operation with the ongoing investigation. The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community of Australia remains steadfast in its commitment to promoting peace, unity, and understanding in our society.”
Ahmadis have been subject to persecution in Muslim-majority countries including Algeria and Pakistan.
Scentre Group, the owner of Westfield, has expressed its condolences to Mr Tahir.
CEO Elliott Rusanow said the company was “devastated” by the loss of Mr Tahir and praised his bravery and role as a first responder in the terrible event.
“Our deepest and heartfelt condolences go out to his family and all who are mourning the loss of loved ones,” he said.
“Our thoughts and concerns are also with the families and carers of those injured in the attack and the everyday heroes whose actions prevented further loss of life.
“Another member of our security team was injured and remains in hospital.
“This news is deeply felt by our Westfield Bondi team, our security partner GLAD and the entire Scentre Group team.”