Alleged Bondi Beach Shooters Operated Solo and Did Not Undergo Preparation in the Southeast Asian Nation, Investigators Confirm.
The pair of accused attackers responsible for the fatal incident at a Jewish gathering on Bondi Beach, which claimed 15 lives, are believed to have been lone actors, as stated by national police.
Authorities further stated that the 50-year-old Sajid Akram, and his 24-year-old son Naveed Akram, 24, flew to the Philippines on 1 November. Their travel plans included landing in the capital Manila before traveling onward that same day to Davao City. The pair returned to Sydney on 29 November.
Lack of Proof of Planning During Trip
Investigators indicate the pair did not undergo any type of terrorist training or "organizing" during their stay in the Philippines. Preliminary findings from local authorities indicate they "rarely left" their hotel.
The incident—labeled as Australia's worst mass shooting since 1996—has been officially designated a act of terrorism.
"We are currently examining the material," she stated, noting that initial evaluations show that "the two men are alleged to have operated independently."
National law enforcement Commissioner Krissy Barrett told reporters on Tuesday that security camera video tracking the accused attackers' activities in the Philippines had been handed over to Australian investigators.
"There is no evidence to support the idea these alleged offenders were members of a wider terrorist cell, or were instructed by overseas entities to execute an act of violence," she said.
But, the pair were likewise not necessarily in the Philippines as tourists, she clarified. She underscored that, since the probe is continuing, additional details might surface.
Inspiration and Legal Charges
Earlier, Australian leader Anthony Albanese remarked it appears both accused attackers were "influenced by Islamic State" extremist views.
During the shooting, Sajid Akram was shot dead by police. He and his son Naveed—both armed with rifles—allegedly targeted guests at the Jewish festival event.
Naveed Akram, who was hospitalised after the shooting, has been charged with 59 charges. These include 15 charges of murder and one count of carrying out a terrorist act. He is scheduled to face court in April.
Immigration Information
In the aftermath following the shooting, immigration officials in the Philippines stated that the father had entered the country using an Indian passport, while his son used an Australian 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 city on the east of Mindanao, the Philippines' main island in the south. Historically, Islamist groups have reportedly be active in less developed parts of southern and western Mindanao.