Suspected Bondi Attackers Operated Solo and Did Not Undergo Instruction in the Philippines, Authorities Say.
The pair of accused individuals responsible for the deadly shooting at a Jewish gathering on Bondi Beach, which claimed 15 lives, are believed to have acted alone, per national law enforcement.
Police additionally revealed that Sajid Akram, 50, and his son Naveed Akram journeyed to the Philippines on 1 November. Their itinerary included landing in the main city Manila before transiting on the day of arrival to Davao City. The pair returned to Sydney on 29 November.
Lack of Proof of Planning During Stay
Investigators indicate the individuals did not receive any type of terrorist coaching or "logistical preparation" during their stay in the Philippines. Early investigations from Philippine officials indicate they "rarely left" their accommodation.
The shooting—described as Australia's worst mass shooting since 1996—has been formally designated a terrorist incident.
"We are actively reviewing the material," she stated, adding that early reviews indicate that "the two men are suspected to have acted alone."
National law enforcement Commissioner Krissy Barrett informed reporters on Tuesday that surveillance material showing the accused attackers' whereabouts in the Philippines had been submitted to Australian investigators.
"There is no evidence to suggest these accused individuals were affiliated with a broader network, or were directed by external parties to carry out an incident," the police chief emphasized.
But, the duo were also not necessarily in the Philippines as tourists, the official added. She stressed that, given that the inquiry is continuing, fresh information might come to light.
Motivation and Court Charges
In prior statements, the nation's leader Anthony Albanese remarked it seems both alleged gunmen were "influenced by ISIS" ideology.
During the attack, Sajid Akram was fatally shot by police. He and his son Naveed—both armed with long-barrelled guns—are accused of having targeted guests at the Jewish festival celebration.
Naveed Akram, who was wounded after the attack, has been charged with 59 offences. These encompass 15 counts of murder and one count of perpetrating a act of terrorism. He is scheduled to appear in court in April.
Travel Particulars
In the days following the shooting, immigration authorities in the Philippines indicated that the father had entered the country using an foreign passport, while his son used an Australian passport.
The pair had listed the metropolis of Davao as their final destination. Their scheduled journey back to Australia was for Sydney.
Davao is a sprawling urban center on the eastern side of Mindanao, the Philippines' main southern island. Historically, Islamist militants have reportedly operate in less developed parts of central and south-western Mindanao.
