Suspected Bondi Attackers Operated Independently and Received No Training in the Southeast Asian Nation, Authorities State.
The two alleged gunmen who carried out the deadly shooting at a Hanukkah gathering on Bondi Beach, resulting in 15 lives, appear to have acted alone, according to Australian law enforcement.
Police additionally revealed that Sajid Akram, 50, and his son Naveed Akram journeyed to the Philippines on 1 November. Their itinerary involved landing in the main city Manila before connecting on the day of arrival to Davao City. The father and son flew back to Sydney on 29 November.
Lack of Proof of Preparation During Trip
Police indicate the individuals did not undergo any form of attack-related instruction or "organizing" during their time in the Philippines. Initial investigations from local officials suggest they "mostly stayed in" their accommodation.
The attack—described as Australia's most severe firearm massacre since 1996—has been officially designated a terrorist incident.
"Our teams are currently examining the evidence," she stated, noting that early assessments indicate that "the two men are believed to have operated independently."
National law enforcement Commissioner Krissy Barrett told the press on Tuesday that security camera video documenting the alleged gunmen's movements in the Philippines had been provided to domestic authorities.
"Our investigation shows little to no indication to indicate these suspects were members of a wider network, or were directed by external parties to execute an attack," she emphasized.
Yet, the duo were also not in the Philippines as tourists, the official noted. She stressed that, given that the probe is continuing, new evidence might surface.
Motivation and Court Proceedings
In prior statements, Australian leader Anthony Albanese remarked it appears both accused gunmen were "inspired by Islamic State" ideology.
During the shooting, Sajid Akram was shot dead by responding officers. He and his son Naveed—reportedly carrying rifles—allegedly shot attendees at the Jewish festival event.
Naveed Akram, who was injured and taken to hospital after the shooting, has been charged with 59 crimes. These include 15 counts of murder and one count of carrying out a act of terrorism. He is expected to face court in April.
Immigration Details
In the days following the shooting, immigration officials in the Philippines stated that the older suspect had arrived in the country using an Indian passport, while his younger suspect used an Australian passport.
The duo had stated the metropolis of Davao as their final destination. Their pre-arranged return flight to Australia was for Sydney.
Davao is a large urban center on the eastern side of Mindanao, the Philippines' main southern island. The region is known because, Militant fighters have reportedly operate in poorer parts of southern and western Mindanao.