Accused Bondi Beach Gunmen Acted Alone and Did Not Preparation in the Southeast Asian Nation, Investigators Confirm.
The pair of accused attackers who carried out the fatal incident at a Jewish event on Bondi Beach, that took 15 lives, appear to have operated independently, as stated by Australian authorities.
Authorities additionally revealed that the 50-year-old Sajid Akram, and his 24-year-old son Naveed Akram, 24, journeyed to the Philippines on 1 November. Their travel plans included arriving in the main city Manila before traveling onward that same day to Davao City. The duo returned to Sydney on 29 November.
No Evidence of Preparation During Trip
Police have stated the individuals did not partake in any type of attack-related training or "logistical preparation" during their visit in the Philippines. Initial inquiries from local authorities suggest they "mostly stayed in" their hotel.
The attack—described as Australia's most severe firearm massacre since 1996—has been formally designated a terrorist incident.
"We are currently reviewing the footage," she said, noting that preliminary evaluations show that "the alleged offenders are suspected to have operated independently."
National law enforcement Chief Krissy Barrett told the press on Tuesday that security camera video tracking the alleged gunmen's activities in the Philippines had been handed over to Australian investigators.
"Our investigation shows no evidence to indicate these alleged offenders were members of a broader organization, or were directed by others to carry out an incident," Commissioner Barrett stated.
However, the pair were also not necessarily in the Philippines for tourism, she added. She stressed that, since the probe is continuing, new evidence may emerge.
Motivation and Legal Charges
Previously, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese commented it seems both accused gunmen were "inspired by Islamic State" ideology.
During the shooting, Sajid Akram was fatally shot by responding officers. He and his son Naveed—both armed with long-barrelled guns—are accused of having targeted participants at the Jewish festival celebration.
Naveed Akram, who was wounded after the attack, has been formally accused of 59 crimes. These include 15 counts of murder and one count of committing a terrorist act. He is expected to appear in court in April.
Travel Details
In the aftermath following the attack, border officials in the Philippines stated that the older suspect had entered the country using an foreign passport, while his son used an domestic passport.
The two had stated the metropolis of Davao as their intended endpoint. Their pre-arranged return flight to Australia was for Sydney.
Davao is a large urban center on the east of Mindanao, the Philippines' main southern island. Historically, Islamist groups have reportedly be active in impoverished parts of central and south-western Mindanao.
