Alleged Bondi Beach Attackers Acted Alone and Did Not Undergo Preparation in the Southeast Asian Nation, Police Say.
The pair of accused attackers responsible for the deadly incident at a Hanukkah gathering on Bondi Beach, which claimed 15 lives, reportedly acted alone, as stated by Australian law enforcement.
Authorities also confirmed that Sajid Akram, 50, and his son Naveed Akram journeyed to the Philippines on 1 November. Their itinerary involved landing in the capital Manila before transiting on the day of arrival to Davao City. The duo flew back to Sydney on 29 November.
Lack of Proof of Planning During Trip
Police assert the duo did not partake in any type of attack-related instruction or "logistical preparation" during their time in the Philippines. Initial investigations from Philippine authorities suggest they "rarely left" their hotel.
The incident—labeled as Australia's worst firearm massacre since 1996—has been formally classified as a act of terrorism.
"We are currently reviewing the material," the commissioner stated, explaining that early reviews show that "the alleged offenders are believed to have operated independently."
Australian Federal Police Chief Krissy Barrett briefed the press on Tuesday that security camera video tracking the accused attackers' activities in the Philippines had been submitted to Australian authorities.
"Our investigation shows no evidence to support the idea these alleged offenders were members of a wider terrorist cell, or were directed by overseas entities to carry out an act of violence," she stated.
However, the men were likewise not necessarily in the Philippines for tourism, Commissioner Barrett clarified. She underscored that, since the probe is continuing, new evidence may emerge.
Ideology and Court Proceedings
In prior statements, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said it appears both accused attackers were "influenced by ISIS" beliefs.
During the incident, Sajid Akram was shot dead by responding officers. He and his son Naveed—equipped with long-barrelled guns—are accused of having shot attendees at the Jewish festival celebration.
Naveed Akram, who was hospitalised after the shooting, has been formally accused of 59 crimes. These comprise 15 charges of murder and one count of perpetrating a act of terrorism. He is due to face court in April.
Immigration Information
In the days following the shooting, border officials in the Philippines reported that the father had entered the country using an foreign passport, while his younger suspect used an domestic passport.
The pair had stated the metropolis of Davao as their intended endpoint. Their pre-arranged return flight to Australia was for Sydney.
Davao is a sprawling metropolis on the eastern side of Mindanao, the Philippines' main southern island. Historically, Islamist militants have reportedly be active in less developed parts of central and south-western Mindanao.
