Suspected Bondi Beach Gunmen Acted Independently and Did Not Undergo Preparation in the Philippines, Investigators State.
The two suspected gunmen responsible for the lethal incident at a Hanukkah celebration on Bondi Beach, which claimed 15 lives, appear to have been lone actors, according to national police.
Authorities further stated that the 50-year-old Sajid Akram, and his 24-year-old son Naveed Akram travelled 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.
Lack of Proof of Preparation During Visit
Investigators indicate the duo did not undergo any form of terrorist coaching or "organizing" during their stay in the Philippines. Early findings from local authorities indicate they "hardly ventured out of" their accommodation.
The attack—described as Australia's most severe firearm massacre since 1996—has been officially designated a terrorist incident.
"We are currently reviewing the footage," the commissioner stated, noting that initial evaluations suggest that "the two men are alleged to have been lone actors."
National law enforcement Commissioner Krissy Barrett briefed media on Tuesday that security camera video showing the alleged gunmen's activities in the Philippines had been handed over to domestic investigators.
"Our investigation shows little to no indication to suggest these suspects were members of a wider organization, or were directed by others to execute an attack," Commissioner Barrett stated.
But, the men were likewise not in the Philippines for tourism, the official clarified. She emphasized that, given that the inquiry is ongoing, additional details may surface.
Inspiration and Legal Proceedings
Earlier, the nation's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese remarked it seems both alleged gunmen were "influenced by ISIS" extremist views.
During the incident, Sajid Akram was shot dead by responding officers. He and his son Naveed—both armed with rifles—allegedly shot attendees at the Hanukkah celebration.
Naveed Akram, who was hospitalised after the shooting, has been charged with 59 offences. These encompass 15 counts of murder and one count of committing a act of terrorism. He is scheduled to appear in court in April.
Travel Information
In the wake following the shooting, border authorities in the Philippines reported that the father had entered the country using an foreign passport, while his son used an domestic passport.
The two had stated the metropolis of Davao as their intended endpoint. Their scheduled journey back to Australia was for Sydney.
Davao is a large metropolis on the eastern side of Mindanao, the Philippines' main island in the south. The region is known because, Militant groups have reportedly be active in impoverished parts of central and south-western Mindanao.
