Suspected Bondi Shooters Operated Solo and Did Not Undergo Training in the Southeast Asian Nation, Investigators State.
The two alleged individuals who carried out the deadly attack at a Jewish event on Bondi Beach, which claimed 15 lives, reportedly been lone actors, as stated by Australian police.
Police also confirmed that Sajid Akram, 50, and his 24-year-old son Naveed Akram journeyed to the Philippines on 1 November. Their itinerary included landing in the capital Manila before traveling onward that same day to Davao City. The father and son returned to Sydney on 29 November.
Lack of Proof of Preparation During Stay
Investigators assert the pair did not receive any type of attack-related instruction or "organizing" during their visit in the Philippines. Initial findings from local officials point to they "mostly stayed in" their hotel.
The incident—labeled as Australia's deadliest mass shooting since 1996—has been officially designated a act of terrorism.
"We are actively reviewing the footage," she said, explaining that preliminary reviews suggest that "these individuals are suspected to have acted alone."
Australian Federal Police Chief Krissy Barrett briefed reporters on Tuesday that surveillance material documenting the alleged gunmen's movements in the Philippines had been submitted to domestic authorities.
"There is no evidence to suggest these alleged offenders were members of a wider organization, or were instructed by others to carry out an attack," she emphasized.
But, the duo were likewise not in the Philippines as tourists, she added. She underscored that, as the inquiry is ongoing, additional details might surface.
Motivation and Legal Charges
In prior statements, Australian leader Anthony Albanese said it seems both accused attackers were "motivated by Islamic State" beliefs.
During the incident, Sajid Akram was fatally shot by police. He and his son Naveed—equipped with long-barrelled guns—allegedly shot guests at the Jewish festival event.
Naveed Akram, who was hospitalised after the attack, has been charged with 59 charges. These encompass 15 charges of murder and one count of committing a terrorist act. He is expected to face court in April.
Travel Details
In the days following the attack, border officials in the Philippines indicated that the father had entered the country using an foreign passport, while his son used an Australian passport.
The duo had stated the metropolis of Davao as their final destination. Their pre-arranged journey back to Australia was for Sydney.
Davao is a sprawling urban center on the east of Mindanao, the Philippines' largest island in the south. Historically, Militant militants have reportedly operate in impoverished parts of southern and western Mindanao.
