Alleged Bondi Attackers Operated Independently and Did Not Training in the Southeast Asian Nation, Authorities State.
The two suspected attackers who carried out the fatal incident at a Jewish gathering on Bondi Beach, that took 15 lives, are believed to have acted alone, according to national police.
Police also confirmed that the 50-year-old Sajid Akram, and his son Naveed Akram flew to the Philippines on 1 November. Their itinerary involved arriving in the capital Manila before traveling onward that same day to Davao City. The father and son returned to Sydney on 29 November.
Lack of Proof of Preparation During Visit
Police indicate the individuals did not undergo any form of attack-related instruction or "planning" during their stay in the Philippines. Early inquiries from Philippine authorities indicate they "mostly stayed in" their accommodation.
The incident—labeled as Australia's most severe mass shooting since 1996—has been officially classified as a terrorist incident.
"We are currently examining the evidence," she said, noting that early evaluations suggest that "the alleged offenders are believed to have acted alone."
National law enforcement Chief Krissy Barrett told reporters on Tuesday that security camera video tracking the accused attackers' activities in the Philippines had been submitted to domestic authorities.
"There is little to no indication to indicate these alleged offenders were affiliated with a broader terrorist cell, or were directed by others to carry out an attack," the police chief emphasized.
Yet, the duo were likewise not necessarily in the Philippines on a leisure trip, Commissioner Barrett added. She stressed that, as the investigation is ongoing, fresh information might come to light.
Ideology and Court Proceedings
Previously, Australian leader Anthony Albanese said it looks as though both accused attackers were "influenced by ISIS" extremist views.
During the attack, Sajid Akram was fatally shot by police. He and his son Naveed—reportedly carrying firearms—are accused of having targeted attendees at the Hanukkah celebration.
Naveed Akram, who was wounded after the attack, has been formally accused of 59 charges. These comprise 15 charges of murder and one count of perpetrating a act of terrorism. He is expected to face court in April.
Travel Details
In the wake following the shooting, border authorities in the Philippines reported that the older suspect had entered the country using an foreign passport, while his son used an Australian passport.
The duo had declared the metropolis of Davao as their final destination. Their pre-arranged return flight to Australia was for Sydney.
Davao is a large metropolis on the east of Mindanao, the Philippines' main southern island. Historically, Islamist militants have been known to be active in impoverished parts of southern and western Mindanao.
