Accused Bondi Attackers Acted Solo and Did Not Undergo Instruction in the Philippines, Police Say.
The pair of accused individuals who carried out the lethal shooting at a Jewish gathering on Bondi Beach, which claimed 15 lives, appear to have acted alone, as stated by national police.
Authorities further stated that Sajid Akram, 50, and his 24-year-old son Naveed Akram, 24, 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 pair returned to Sydney on 29 November.
Lack of Proof of Training During Trip
Police have stated the pair did not partake in any type of attack-related coaching or "organizing" during their stay in the Philippines. Early inquiries from Philippine authorities indicate they "mostly stayed in" their hotel.
The incident—labeled as Australia's most severe firearm massacre since 1996—has been formally designated a terrorist incident.
"We are currently reviewing the material," she said, adding that initial evaluations suggest that "the alleged offenders are believed to have been lone actors."
National law enforcement Chief Krissy Barrett informed media on Tuesday that CCTV footage documenting the accused attackers' activities in the Philippines had been handed over to Australian authorities.
"Our investigation shows little to no indication to suggest these accused individuals were affiliated with a broader network, or were acting on orders from overseas entities to execute an incident," she emphasized.
Yet, the duo were likewise not necessarily in the Philippines for tourism, she noted. She underscored that, given that the inquiry is continuing, new evidence may emerge.
Motivation and Court Proceedings
Previously, Australian leader Anthony Albanese said it looks as though both accused attackers were "inspired by ISIS" extremist views.
During the attack, Sajid Akram was fatally shot by police. He and his son Naveed—both armed with firearms—are accused of having shot guests at the Hanukkah celebration.
Naveed Akram, who was wounded after the attack, has been formally accused of 59 offences. These encompass 15 counts of murder and one count of committing a act of terrorism. He is expected to appear in court in April.
Travel Information
In the aftermath following the attack, border officials in the Philippines stated that the father had entered 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 journey back to Australia was for Sydney.
Davao is a expansive metropolis on the eastern side of Mindanao, the Philippines' main southern island. The region is known because, Militant militants have reportedly operate in poorer parts of central and south-western Mindanao.
