Accused Bondi Beach Shooters Operated Independently and Received No Preparation in the Philippines, Authorities State.
The pair of accused gunmen who carried out the deadly incident at a Hanukkah celebration on Bondi Beach, that took 15 lives, reportedly been lone actors, as stated by Australian authorities.
Investigators additionally revealed that Sajid Akram, 50, and his 24-year-old son Naveed Akram, 24, flew to the Philippines on 1 November. Their itinerary included landing in the capital Manila before connecting that same day to Davao City. The pair returned to Sydney on 29 November.
No Evidence of Planning During Stay
Investigators indicate the pair did not receive any type of terrorist training or "planning" during their stay in the Philippines. Preliminary findings from Philippine officials point to they "hardly ventured out of" their hotel.
The attack—described as Australia's deadliest mass shooting since 1996—has been officially designated a act of terrorism.
"We are currently examining the material," she said, explaining that early reviews suggest that "the alleged offenders are alleged to have acted alone."
National law enforcement Chief Krissy Barrett briefed media on Tuesday that security camera video showing the accused attackers' movements in the Philippines had been submitted to Australian authorities.
"There is little to no indication to support the idea these suspects were part of a larger network, or were instructed by overseas entities to execute an attack," she emphasized.
But, the men were also not in the Philippines for tourism, the official clarified. She emphasized that, as the investigation is continuing, fresh information might come to light.
Inspiration and Court Proceedings
Previously, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said it appears both accused attackers were "influenced by Islamic State" ideology.
During the incident, Sajid Akram was shot dead by police. He and his son Naveed—equipped with rifles—are accused of having shot attendees at the Jewish festival event.
Naveed Akram, who was hospitalised after the attack, has been formally accused of 59 offences. These encompass 15 charges of murder and one count of committing a terrorist act. He is due to face court in April.
Immigration Particulars
In the wake following the shooting, immigration authorities in the Philippines stated that the father had arrived in the country using an foreign passport, while his younger suspect used an domestic passport.
The pair had declared the southern city of Davao as their final destination. Their pre-arranged journey back to Australia was for Sydney.
Davao is a expansive metropolis on the east of Mindanao, the Philippines' primary island in the south. Historically, Militant groups have reportedly be active in poorer parts of southern and western Mindanao.
