Accused Bondi Beach Shooters Operated Solo and Did Not Undergo Training in the Southeast Asian Nation, Police Say.
The two alleged gunmen who carried out the deadly incident at a Jewish celebration on Bondi Beach, resulting in 15 lives, reportedly operated independently, per national law enforcement.
Investigators further stated that Sajid Akram, 50, and his 24-year-old son Naveed Akram, 24, journeyed to the Philippines on 1 November. Their itinerary involved arriving in the main city Manila before transiting on the day of arrival to Davao City. The father and son returned to Sydney on 29 November.
Lack of Proof of Planning During Trip
Investigators have stated the individuals did not undergo any type of attack-related training or "logistical preparation" during their visit in the Philippines. Preliminary inquiries from Philippine authorities suggest they "rarely left" their hotel.
The attack—labeled as Australia's most severe mass shooting since 1996—has been officially designated a terrorist incident.
"We are currently examining the evidence," the commissioner stated, explaining that initial evaluations indicate that "the alleged offenders are believed to have operated independently."
National law enforcement Commissioner Krissy Barrett briefed the press on Tuesday that security camera video showing the accused attackers' movements in the Philippines had been handed over to Australian investigators.
"Our investigation shows no evidence to suggest these alleged offenders were affiliated with a larger network, or were instructed by others to carry out an incident," the police chief emphasized.
However, the duo were also not necessarily in the Philippines for tourism, Commissioner Barrett added. She underscored that, given that the investigation is continuing, new evidence may surface.
Ideology and Court Charges
Earlier, Australian leader Anthony Albanese said it appears both accused attackers were "motivated by the so-called Islamic State" ideology.
During the shooting, Sajid Akram was shot dead by police. He and his son Naveed—reportedly carrying firearms—allegedly targeted guests at the Hanukkah event.
Naveed Akram, who was injured and taken to hospital after the attack, has been formally accused of 59 charges. These encompass 15 charges of murder and one count of perpetrating a terrorist act. He is expected to face court in April.
Immigration Information
In the wake following the attack, immigration authorities in the Philippines indicated that the father had arrived in the country using an Indian passport, while his younger suspect used an domestic passport.
The pair had stated the metropolis of Davao as their final destination. Their pre-arranged return flight to Australia was for Sydney.
Davao is a expansive metropolis on the east of Mindanao, the Philippines' primary southern island. It is noted that, Islamist groups have reportedly operate in less developed parts of central and south-western Mindanao.