Suspected Bondi Beach Shooters Acted Solo and Did Not Preparation in the Philippines, Authorities Confirm.
The two suspected individuals who carried out the fatal incident at a Jewish event on Bondi Beach, which claimed 15 lives, reportedly acted alone, per Australian authorities.
Authorities also confirmed that the 50-year-old Sajid Akram, and his son Naveed Akram journeyed to the Philippines on 1 November. Their travel plans included arriving in the capital Manila before connecting on the day of arrival to Davao City. The duo flew back to Sydney on 29 November.
Lack of Proof of Planning During Trip
Investigators indicate the duo did not partake in any form of terrorist instruction or "logistical preparation" during their time in the Philippines. Early investigations from local officials point to they "mostly stayed in" their hotel.
The shooting—labeled as Australia's deadliest firearm massacre since 1996—has been formally declared a act of terrorism.
"We are currently examining the material," the commissioner said, adding that early reviews suggest that "the two men are suspected to have acted alone."
National law enforcement Chief Krissy Barrett told the press on Tuesday that CCTV footage documenting the accused attackers' movements in the Philippines had been provided to domestic authorities.
"There is little to no indication to suggest these accused individuals were part of a broader network, or were directed by external parties to execute an act of violence," she said.
Yet, the duo were also not necessarily in the Philippines as tourists, she clarified. She emphasized that, as the probe is continuing, new evidence may come to light.
Ideology and Court Proceedings
Previously, the nation's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese remarked it seems both alleged gunmen were "influenced by ISIS" ideology.
During the shooting, Sajid Akram was killed by police. He and his son Naveed—reportedly carrying firearms—are accused of having targeted guests at the Hanukkah event.
Naveed Akram, who was hospitalised after the shooting, has been formally accused of 59 charges. These encompass 15 charges of murder and one count of committing a terrorist act. He is expected to appear in court in April.
Immigration Particulars
In the aftermath following the attack, border authorities in the Philippines stated that the older suspect had arrived in the country using an Indian passport, while his son used an Australian passport.
The pair had stated the southern city of Davao as their final destination. Their booked return flight to Australia was for Sydney.
Davao is a large metropolis on the eastern side of Mindanao, the Philippines' primary island in the south. Historically, Islamist fighters have reportedly operate in impoverished parts of southern and western Mindanao.