Accused Bondi Beach Shooters Operated Independently and Did Not Instruction in the Philippines, Police Confirm.
The pair of accused individuals who carried out the deadly incident at a Hanukkah gathering on Bondi Beach, which claimed 15 lives, reportedly operated independently, as stated by Australian police.
Authorities additionally revealed that the 50-year-old Sajid Akram, and his son Naveed Akram journeyed to the Philippines on 1 November. Their travel plans included landing in the main city 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 Trip
Authorities assert the pair did not receive any type of terrorist instruction or "planning" during their visit in the Philippines. Early investigations from Philippine officials indicate they "hardly ventured out of" their hotel.
The shooting—labeled as Australia's worst firearm massacre since 1996—has been officially declared a act of terrorism.
"We are actively reviewing the material," she stated, noting that early assessments suggest that "the two men are alleged to have operated independently."
National law enforcement Commissioner Krissy Barrett briefed media on Tuesday that CCTV footage tracking the alleged gunmen's whereabouts in the Philippines had been handed over to Australian authorities.
"Our investigation shows no evidence to suggest these accused individuals were affiliated with a broader network, or were acting on orders from others to execute an incident," she stated.
Yet, the men were likewise not necessarily in the Philippines for tourism, the official added. She stressed that, as the probe is ongoing, additional details might come to light.
Inspiration and Legal Charges
In prior statements, Australian leader Anthony Albanese said it seems both alleged gunmen were "inspired by Islamic State" extremist views.
During the shooting, Sajid Akram was killed by responding officers. He and his son Naveed—both armed with long-barrelled guns—allegedly targeted guests at the Jewish festival celebration.
Naveed Akram, who was injured and taken to hospital after the attack, has been charged with 59 charges. These include 15 counts of murder and one count of perpetrating a act of terrorism. He is due to face court in April.
Travel Information
In the aftermath following the attack, immigration officials in the Philippines reported that the father had entered the country using an foreign passport, while his younger suspect used an Australian passport.
The two had stated the metropolis of Davao as their final destination. Their booked return flight to Australia was for Sydney.
Davao is a large city on the eastern side of Mindanao, the Philippines' main island in the south. Historically, Islamist fighters have been known to be active in less developed parts of central and south-western Mindanao.
