Alleged Bondi Gunmen Operated Independently and Did Not Preparation in the Southeast Asian Nation, Investigators Confirm.
The two suspected attackers responsible for the fatal shooting at a Hanukkah celebration on Bondi Beach, resulting in 15 lives, are believed to have been lone actors, according to national authorities.
Investigators also confirmed that the 50-year-old Sajid Akram, and his son Naveed Akram, 24, flew to the Philippines on 1 November. Their travel plans involved landing in the main city Manila before traveling onward on the day of arrival to Davao City. The pair flew back to Sydney on 29 November.
Lack of Proof of Training During Stay
Police have stated the individuals did not receive any type of attack-related coaching or "logistical preparation" during their visit in the Philippines. Early investigations from Philippine authorities suggest they "rarely left" their accommodation.
The incident—declared Australia's deadliest firearm massacre since 1996—has been officially designated a terrorist incident.
"Our teams are currently reviewing the material," the commissioner stated, noting that initial evaluations indicate that "the alleged offenders are alleged to have been lone actors."
National law enforcement Chief Krissy Barrett told reporters on Tuesday that CCTV footage documenting the accused attackers' whereabouts in the Philippines had been handed over to Australian investigators.
"There is little to no indication to suggest these accused individuals were affiliated with a wider organization, or were directed by others to perpetrate an attack," the police chief said.
Yet, the duo were likewise not necessarily in the Philippines as tourists, she clarified. She stressed that, as the inquiry is ongoing, additional details might come to light.
Inspiration and Court Charges
In prior statements, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese remarked it seems both accused gunmen were "influenced by Islamic State" extremist views.
During the attack, Sajid Akram was shot dead by responding officers. He and his son Naveed—equipped with firearms—allegedly shot attendees at the Hanukkah celebration.
Naveed Akram, who was hospitalised after the shooting, has been charged with 59 charges. These include 15 charges of murder and one count of perpetrating a terrorist act. He is due to appear in court in April.
Immigration Details
In the wake following the shooting, immigration officials in the Philippines reported that the older suspect had entered the country using an Indian passport, while his son used an domestic passport.
The duo had listed the southern city of Davao as their final destination. Their booked return flight to Australia was for Sydney.
Davao is a large city on the east of Mindanao, the Philippines' main island in the south. It is noted that, Militant fighters have reportedly be active in poorer parts of southern and western Mindanao.
