Accused Bondi Beach Attackers Operated Solo and Did Not Undergo Instruction in the Southeast Asian Nation, Police State.
The two suspected individuals responsible for the fatal shooting at a Hanukkah gathering on Bondi Beach, resulting in 15 lives, appear to have acted alone, according to Australian authorities.
Investigators further stated that the 50-year-old Sajid Akram, and his 24-year-old son Naveed Akram, 24, travelled 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 duo flew back to Sydney on 29 November.
Lack of Proof of Preparation During Stay
Authorities have stated the individuals did not partake in any form of attack-related instruction or "logistical preparation" during their stay in the Philippines. Initial findings from local officials indicate they "rarely left" their accommodation.
The incident—labeled as Australia's deadliest firearm massacre since 1996—has been formally classified as a act of terrorism.
"We are currently examining the material," the commissioner said, explaining that early assessments show that "the alleged offenders are alleged to have operated independently."
National law enforcement Chief Krissy Barrett told reporters on Tuesday that CCTV footage documenting the accused attackers' movements in the Philippines had been provided to Australian authorities.
"Our investigation shows little to no indication to suggest these accused individuals were part of a larger network, or were acting on orders from external parties to execute an act of violence," she emphasized.
Yet, the pair were likewise not necessarily in the Philippines for tourism, Commissioner Barrett clarified. She underscored that, as the investigation is ongoing, new evidence might surface.
Ideology and Legal Proceedings
Previously, Australian leader Anthony Albanese remarked it looks as though both alleged attackers were "influenced by ISIS" beliefs.
During the attack, Sajid Akram was shot dead by responding officers. He and his son Naveed—reportedly carrying firearms—allegedly opened fire on guests at the Hanukkah event.
Naveed Akram, who was hospitalised after the attack, has been charged with 59 charges. These comprise 15 counts of murder and one count of perpetrating a terrorist act. He is expected to face court in April.
Travel Particulars
In the days following the shooting, border authorities in the Philippines reported that the father had entered the country using an Indian passport, while his son used an Australian passport.
The duo had declared the metropolis of Davao as their intended endpoint. Their booked return flight to Australia was for Sydney.
Davao is a sprawling metropolis on the east of Mindanao, the Philippines' primary southern island. Historically, Islamist groups have reportedly operate in impoverished parts of southern and western Mindanao.
