Alleged Bondi Beach Attackers Operated Alone and Did Not Instruction in the Southeast Asian Nation, Authorities State.
The two suspected gunmen responsible for the fatal incident at a Hanukkah celebration on Bondi Beach, resulting in 15 lives, are believed to have operated independently, according to Australian law enforcement.
Police further stated that the 50-year-old Sajid Akram, and his 24-year-old 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 Preparation During Visit
Authorities indicate the individuals did not partake in any form of terrorist instruction or "organizing" during their visit in the Philippines. Preliminary investigations from local authorities suggest they "mostly stayed in" their accommodation.
The attack—labeled as Australia's deadliest firearm massacre since 1996—has been officially declared a act of terrorism.
"We are actively analyzing the footage," the commissioner stated, noting that preliminary assessments indicate that "these individuals are believed to have acted alone."
Australian Federal Police Chief Krissy Barrett informed media on Tuesday that CCTV footage tracking the accused attackers' whereabouts in the Philippines had been submitted to domestic investigators.
"Our investigation shows little to no indication to suggest these suspects were part of a broader network, or were acting on orders from overseas entities to carry out an incident," the police chief said.
But, the men were additionally not in the Philippines for tourism, she noted. She underscored that, since the inquiry is ongoing, fresh information could emerge.
Inspiration and Court Proceedings
Previously, the nation's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese commented it appears both accused gunmen were "inspired by ISIS" beliefs.
During the incident, Sajid Akram was fatally shot by police. He and his son Naveed—equipped with long-barrelled guns—allegedly targeted attendees at the Jewish festival celebration.
Naveed Akram, who was hospitalised after the shooting, has been formally accused of 59 crimes. These encompass 15 counts of murder and one count of carrying out a act of terrorism. He is scheduled to appear in court in April.
Travel Particulars
In the days following the attack, border officials in the Philippines stated that the older suspect had arrived in the country using an foreign passport, while his younger suspect used an domestic passport.
The duo had declared the metropolis of Davao as their final destination. Their scheduled journey back to Australia was for Sydney.
Davao is a expansive metropolis on the east of Mindanao, the Philippines' largest southern island. Historically, Militant fighters have reportedly operate in less developed parts of central and south-western Mindanao.
