Accused Bondi Shooters Operated Independently and Received No Preparation in the Philippines, Authorities State.
The pair of accused gunmen responsible for the lethal shooting at a Hanukkah gathering on Bondi Beach, resulting in 15 lives, reportedly acted alone, as stated by Australian authorities.
Police additionally revealed that Sajid Akram, 50, and his son Naveed Akram, 24, journeyed to the Philippines on 1 November. Their itinerary included arriving in the main city Manila before traveling onward that same day to Davao City. The duo flew back to Sydney on 29 November.
Lack of Proof of Planning During Trip
Police indicate the individuals did not undergo any form of terrorist instruction or "logistical preparation" during their time in the Philippines. Early inquiries from local officials suggest they "mostly stayed in" their hotel.
The shooting—labeled as Australia's deadliest mass shooting since 1996—has been officially classified as a terrorist incident.
"We are actively examining the footage," the commissioner said, explaining that preliminary evaluations suggest that "the alleged offenders are suspected to have been lone actors."
Australian Federal Police Chief Krissy Barrett informed the press on Tuesday that surveillance material tracking the accused attackers' whereabouts in the Philippines had been provided to Australian investigators.
"Our investigation shows little to no indication to support the idea these alleged offenders were part of a broader terrorist cell, or were directed by external parties to carry out an act of violence," Commissioner Barrett stated.
However, the duo were likewise not necessarily in the Philippines as tourists, the official clarified. She stressed that, since the inquiry is still active, fresh information may emerge.
Motivation and Court Charges
Previously, Australian leader Anthony Albanese commented it seems both accused attackers were "inspired by Islamic State" extremist views.
During the attack, Sajid Akram was fatally shot by police. He and his son Naveed—both armed with firearms—are accused of having opened fire on guests at the Hanukkah event.
Naveed Akram, who was hospitalised after the shooting, has been charged with 59 offences. These include 15 charges of murder and one count of carrying out a terrorist act. He is due to face court in April.
Travel Information
In the days following the shooting, immigration officials in the Philippines stated that the older suspect had entered the country using an Indian passport, while his younger suspect used an Australian passport.
The two had listed the metropolis of Davao as their final destination. Their scheduled journey back to Australia was for Sydney.
Davao is a expansive urban center on the east of Mindanao, the Philippines' primary southern island. Historically, Militant fighters have reportedly operate in impoverished parts of southern and western Mindanao.
