Suspected Bondi Beach Gunmen Acted Independently and Did Not Undergo Preparation in the Philippines, Authorities State.
The two suspected attackers responsible for the deadly shooting at a Hanukkah celebration on Bondi Beach, resulting in 15 lives, are believed to have acted alone, per national police.
Investigators further stated that Sajid Akram, 50, and his 24-year-old son Naveed Akram flew to the Philippines on 1 November. Their itinerary included landing in the main city Manila before connecting that same day to Davao City. The father and son returned to Sydney on 29 November.
Lack of Proof of Preparation During Stay
Police assert the pair did not undergo any form of attack-related coaching or "logistical preparation" during their time in the Philippines. Initial findings from Philippine authorities suggest they "mostly stayed in" their hotel.
The attack—declared Australia's most severe mass shooting since 1996—has been formally classified as a act of terrorism.
"Our teams are currently analyzing the footage," the commissioner said, noting that preliminary evaluations suggest that "the alleged offenders are believed to have acted alone."
National law enforcement Chief Krissy Barrett briefed the press on Tuesday that surveillance material showing the accused attackers' movements in the Philippines had been handed over to domestic investigators.
"Our investigation shows little to no indication to suggest these accused individuals were part of a broader organization, or were acting on orders from overseas entities to carry out an act of violence," Commissioner Barrett emphasized.
However, the duo were additionally not in the Philippines as tourists, the official clarified. She underscored that, since the probe is continuing, additional details may emerge.
Motivation and Court Proceedings
Previously, the nation's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese commented it seems both alleged attackers were "influenced by ISIS" ideology.
During the shooting, Sajid Akram was shot dead by police. He and his son Naveed—equipped with firearms—allegedly opened fire on attendees at the Hanukkah event.
Naveed Akram, who was hospitalised after the shooting, has been charged with 59 offences. These encompass 15 charges of murder and one count of carrying out a act of terrorism. He is scheduled to appear in court in April.
Immigration Details
In the wake following the shooting, border officials in the Philippines reported that the father had entered the country using an Indian passport, while his son used an Australian passport.
The duo had declared the metropolis of Davao as their intended endpoint. Their booked journey back to Australia was for Sydney.
Davao is a large urban center on the east of Mindanao, the Philippines' main island in the south. It is noted that, Militant militants have been known to operate in poorer parts of southern and western Mindanao.
