Accused Bondi Attackers Operated Solo and Did Not Preparation in the Southeast Asian Nation, Investigators Say.
The pair of accused attackers responsible for the lethal attack at a Jewish celebration on Bondi Beach, which claimed 15 lives, reportedly been lone actors, as stated by Australian police.
Investigators additionally revealed that the 50-year-old Sajid Akram, and his son Naveed Akram travelled to the Philippines on 1 November. Their itinerary included arriving in the main city Manila before transiting that same day to Davao City. The father and son flew back to Sydney on 29 November.
Lack of Proof of Preparation During Trip
Investigators have stated the individuals did not partake in any form of terrorist training or "planning" during their visit in the Philippines. Initial investigations from local officials suggest they "mostly stayed in" their hotel.
The attack—described as Australia's worst firearm massacre since 1996—has been officially designated a act of terrorism.
"Our teams are actively reviewing the evidence," she stated, noting that early reviews show that "the alleged offenders are alleged to have operated independently."
Australian Federal Police Chief Krissy Barrett informed media on Tuesday that CCTV footage tracking the accused attackers' activities in the Philippines had been handed over to Australian authorities.
"There is no evidence to support the idea these suspects were members of a wider organization, or were directed by overseas entities to carry out an act of violence," she stated.
But, the duo were also not in the Philippines on a leisure trip, she clarified. She underscored that, since the probe is ongoing, new evidence may emerge.
Inspiration and Court Proceedings
Earlier, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said it appears both accused gunmen were "inspired by Islamic State" extremist views.
During the incident, Sajid Akram was shot dead by police. He and his son Naveed—reportedly carrying rifles—allegedly shot participants at the Jewish festival event.
Naveed Akram, who was hospitalised after the attack, has been formally accused of 59 offences. These encompass 15 charges of murder and one count of committing a act of terrorism. He is expected to appear in court in April.
Immigration Information
In the wake following the shooting, border authorities in the Philippines stated that the older suspect had arrived in the country using an foreign passport, while his son used an Australian passport.
The pair had declared the southern city of Davao as their final destination. Their scheduled return flight to Australia was for Sydney.
Davao is a large urban center on the eastern side of Mindanao, the Philippines' primary island in the south. It is noted that, Militant groups have been known to be active in poorer parts of southern and western Mindanao.
