Suspected Bondi Beach Gunmen Acted Independently and Did Not Training in the Philippines, Authorities State.
The pair of accused gunmen responsible for the fatal shooting at a Jewish gathering on Bondi Beach, which claimed 15 lives, reportedly acted alone, per national law enforcement.
Authorities also confirmed that the 50-year-old Sajid Akram, and his 24-year-old son Naveed Akram flew to the Philippines on 1 November. Their itinerary included landing in the capital Manila before connecting on the day of arrival to Davao City. The father and son returned to Sydney on 29 November.
Lack of Proof of Training During Visit
Police have stated the pair did not undergo any type of attack-related training or "planning" during their time in the Philippines. Early inquiries from Philippine officials indicate they "hardly ventured out of" their accommodation.
The incident—described as Australia's most severe mass shooting since 1996—has been officially designated a act of terrorism.
"We are currently reviewing the evidence," she stated, adding that early reviews show that "the two men are alleged to have acted alone."
National law enforcement Chief Krissy Barrett briefed the press on Tuesday that security camera video documenting the accused attackers' movements in the Philippines had been provided to Australian investigators.
"There is no evidence to suggest these alleged offenders were part of a larger organization, or were instructed by others to execute an attack," she said.
But, the duo were likewise not in the Philippines for tourism, the official added. She emphasized that, since the inquiry is continuing, fresh information may come to light.
Inspiration and Court Charges
In prior statements, the nation's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese remarked it looks as though both accused attackers were "inspired by Islamic State" ideology.
During the attack, Sajid Akram was fatally shot by police. He and his son Naveed—reportedly carrying firearms—allegedly targeted guests at the Jewish festival celebration.
Naveed Akram, who was injured and taken to hospital after the shooting, has been formally accused of 59 offences. These comprise 15 charges of murder and one count of committing a act of terrorism. He is scheduled to face court in April.
Travel Information
In the aftermath following the shooting, border authorities in the Philippines indicated that the father had entered the country using an Indian passport, while his younger suspect used an Australian passport.
The two had stated the southern city of Davao as their intended endpoint. Their booked journey back to Australia was for Sydney.
Davao is a expansive urban center on the east of Mindanao, the Philippines' largest island in the south. It is noted that, Islamist groups have been known to be active in poorer parts of southern and western Mindanao.
