Alleged Bondi Gunmen Acted Solo and Did Not Training in the Philippines, Investigators State.
The two suspected attackers responsible for the deadly attack at a Jewish event on Bondi Beach, that took 15 lives, are believed to have operated independently, as stated by Australian authorities.
Authorities also confirmed that Sajid Akram, 50, and his son Naveed Akram flew to the Philippines on 1 November. Their travel plans included arriving in the capital Manila before traveling onward on the day of arrival to Davao City. The pair returned to Sydney on 29 November.
No Evidence of Preparation During Stay
Authorities indicate the individuals did not undergo any type of terrorist coaching or "logistical preparation" during their time in the Philippines. Early investigations from Philippine officials indicate they "hardly ventured out of" their accommodation.
The incident—described as Australia's most severe firearm massacre since 1996—has been officially designated a terrorist incident.
"We are actively reviewing the material," she said, explaining that preliminary reviews show that "these individuals are suspected to have operated independently."
National law enforcement Chief Krissy Barrett briefed the press on Tuesday that CCTV footage tracking the accused attackers' activities in the Philippines had been provided to Australian investigators.
"There is little to no indication to suggest these accused individuals were affiliated with a broader organization, or were acting on orders from overseas entities to perpetrate an attack," Commissioner Barrett said.
Yet, the pair were also not necessarily in the Philippines for tourism, the official added. She stressed that, since the probe is still active, additional details might emerge.
Ideology and Legal Proceedings
Previously, Australian leader Anthony Albanese said it appears both alleged gunmen were "motivated by Islamic State" beliefs.
During the shooting, Sajid Akram was fatally shot by responding officers. He and his son Naveed—both armed with rifles—are accused of having targeted guests at the Jewish festival event.
Naveed Akram, who was injured and taken to hospital after the attack, has been charged with 59 charges. These include 15 charges of murder and one count of carrying out a terrorist act. He is expected to face court in April.
Travel Details
In the aftermath following the attack, immigration authorities in the Philippines reported that the older suspect had arrived in the country using an foreign passport, while his son used an domestic passport.
The pair had listed the metropolis of Davao as their final destination. Their scheduled journey back to Australia was for Sydney.
Davao is a large metropolis on the east of Mindanao, the Philippines' main island in the south. The region is known because, Islamist militants have reportedly operate in impoverished parts of central and south-western Mindanao.
