Accused Bondi Beach Attackers Operated Alone and Received No Instruction in the Philippines, Police Say.
The two suspected attackers responsible for the lethal incident at a Jewish celebration on Bondi Beach, which claimed 15 lives, reportedly operated independently, according to national law enforcement.
Authorities additionally revealed that the 50-year-old Sajid Akram, and his son Naveed Akram, 24, flew to the Philippines on 1 November. Their itinerary included arriving in the main city Manila before connecting that same day to Davao City. The father and son returned to Sydney on 29 November.
No Evidence of Preparation During Visit
Police indicate the individuals did not undergo any type of terrorist coaching or "logistical preparation" during their visit in the Philippines. Initial investigations from Philippine authorities suggest they "hardly ventured out of" their hotel.
The attack—labeled as Australia's most severe mass shooting since 1996—has been formally declared a act of terrorism.
"We are actively analyzing the material," the commissioner stated, explaining that preliminary reviews indicate that "the two men are suspected to have acted alone."
National law enforcement Chief Krissy Barrett briefed reporters on Tuesday that surveillance material showing the alleged gunmen's movements in the Philippines had been handed over to domestic authorities.
"Our investigation shows no evidence to indicate these alleged offenders were affiliated with a larger terrorist cell, or were acting on orders from overseas entities to perpetrate an attack," Commissioner Barrett stated.
However, the duo were likewise not in the Philippines on a leisure trip, she clarified. She stressed that, as the investigation is continuing, additional details might emerge.
Inspiration and Court Proceedings
In prior statements, Australian leader Anthony Albanese said it looks as though both alleged gunmen were "inspired by Islamic State" extremist views.
During the incident, Sajid Akram was fatally shot by responding officers. He and his son Naveed—reportedly carrying firearms—are accused of having opened fire on attendees at the Hanukkah celebration.
Naveed Akram, who was hospitalised after the attack, has been formally accused of 59 crimes. These encompass 15 counts of murder and one count of carrying out a terrorist act. He is due to appear in court in April.
Immigration Particulars
In the days following the attack, border authorities in the Philippines stated that the older suspect had entered the country using an Indian passport, while his younger suspect used an domestic passport.
The duo had stated the metropolis of Davao as their final destination. Their booked return flight to Australia was for Sydney.
Davao is a expansive metropolis on the eastern side of Mindanao, the Philippines' largest island in the south. The region is known because, Militant militants have reportedly operate in poorer parts of southern and western Mindanao.
