Man killed in brazen shooting in Sydney CBD linked to organised crime
A man with links to organised crime was killed in a brazen shooting in Sydney's CBD, with passersby falling over each other trying to dodge flying bullets.
Emergency services were called to Baptist Street in Surry Hills, near Cleveland Street, following reports of shots fired about 7.45pm yesterday.
Police said the man was shot while sitting alone in his car at a service station nearby.
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Police found a man, believed to be in his 30s, with a gunshot wound. Nine
He ran from the scene while two men armed with guns chased him.
"I was very fearful. I ducked immediately and hid below the ice cream freezer," witness Vishaal Bhojaani told 9News.
The bullets kept flying as the pursuit continued down the road until the shooters eventually pulled back.
The public quickly became aware of the danger and fell over each other trying to flee.
The injured man had stumbled to Bathurst Street, where he died from his injuries in front of pub and restaurant patrons.
He has been identified as 30-year-old Niddal Acherkouk.
"He does have links to organised crime entities," Superintendent Andrew Garner said.
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The man stumbled through Cleveland Street and died from his injuries on Bathurst Street in front of pub and restaurant goers. Nine
A Porsche was set alight at a nearby unit complex on Kensington Road in Kensington and initial inquiries suggest the two incidents are linked.
Police said the attack was well-planned with both men dressed head-to-toe in black with no skin showing.
One of the men was also wearing a plastic poncho.
Police said they arrived at the service station in the black Porsche five minutes before setting upon Acherkouk.
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Police found a Porsche on fire in Kensington. Nine
The pair remained on the run tonight.
"This was an outrageous incident and it demonstrated a high level of reckless indifference to the public that were around that area at the time," Garner said.
"We're working very hard to identify and arrest those involved ... we're coming for you."
Police assured the public no further threat remained.
A report will be prepared for the Coroner.
Anyone with information on this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
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