Former students from Cabramatta High School have spoken of their disbelief after seeing a familiar face linked to the recent public safety incident near Bondi Beach. Those who knew Naveed Akram during his school years say the news was deeply confronting and difficult to process.

Several classmates described him as a quiet and reserved student who tended to keep to himself at the back of the classroom. According to them, he was not someone who drew attention or stood out during his time at school. For this reason, many said they struggled to reconcile their memories with the images and reports now circulating in the media.

“It was a complete shock,” one former schoolmate said. “He was just another student trying to get through school. None of us imagined anything like this.”

The incident has sparked broader conversations about early warning signs, community awareness, and the importance of support systems for young people who may feel isolated. Former classmates emphasized that schools and communities often see only part of a person’s story, highlighting how complex and layered individual lives can be.

As authorities continue their investigation, those who once shared classrooms with Akram say they are left reflecting on how easily someone can fade into the background, and how crucial it is to recognize and address issues before they escalate into serious public safety concerns.