Suspected Bondi Gunmen Operated Solo and Did Not Training in the Philippines, Investigators Confirm.
The two suspected individuals who carried out the lethal shooting at a Jewish event on Bondi Beach, which claimed 15 lives, reportedly operated independently, according to national authorities.
Authorities additionally revealed that the 50-year-old Sajid Akram, and his son Naveed Akram flew to the Philippines on 1 November. Their travel plans involved landing in the main city Manila before traveling onward that same day to Davao City. The duo returned to Sydney on 29 November.
Lack of Proof of Training During Visit
Authorities assert the individuals did not partake in any form of attack-related coaching or "planning" during their visit in the Philippines. Early inquiries from Philippine officials point to they "mostly stayed in" their hotel.
The attack—described as Australia's most severe mass shooting since 1996—has been formally classified as a act of terrorism.
"We are actively analyzing the evidence," she said, explaining that preliminary reviews suggest that "these individuals are suspected to have operated independently."
National law enforcement Commissioner Krissy Barrett briefed the press on Tuesday that security camera video documenting the accused attackers' activities in the Philippines had been handed over to domestic authorities.
"Our investigation shows no evidence to support the idea these alleged offenders were part of a broader terrorist cell, or were directed by external parties to carry out an attack," the police chief emphasized.
However, the duo were additionally not necessarily in the Philippines as tourists, Commissioner Barrett noted. She underscored that, as the probe is continuing, additional details might emerge.
Ideology and Court Charges
Previously, Australian leader Anthony Albanese remarked it appears both alleged attackers were "inspired by ISIS" beliefs.
During the attack, Sajid Akram was killed by responding officers. He and his son Naveed—reportedly carrying rifles—allegedly targeted participants at the Hanukkah celebration.
Naveed Akram, who was injured and taken to hospital after the attack, has been charged with 59 crimes. These include 15 charges of murder and one count of carrying out a terrorist act. He is due to face court in April.
Travel Details
In the aftermath following the attack, border authorities in the Philippines stated that the older suspect had entered the country using an foreign passport, while his son used an domestic passport.
The pair had listed the southern city of Davao as their intended endpoint. Their scheduled return flight to Australia was for Sydney.
Davao is a sprawling urban center on the eastern side of Mindanao, the Philippines' main southern island. The region is known because, Militant groups have been known to operate in impoverished parts of southern and western Mindanao.
