Accused Bondi Gunmen Acted Solo and Received No Instruction in the Southeast Asian Nation, Authorities State.
The two suspected individuals who carried out the fatal incident at a Jewish event on Bondi Beach, which claimed 15 lives, reportedly been lone actors, as stated by Australian police.
Authorities further stated that Sajid Akram, 50, and his son Naveed Akram, 24, travelled to the Philippines on 1 November. Their itinerary included arriving in the capital Manila before transiting that same day to Davao City. The pair flew back to Sydney on 29 November.
Lack of Proof of Preparation During Trip
Authorities have stated the individuals did not undergo any form of attack-related coaching or "planning" during their time in the Philippines. Initial findings from Philippine officials point to they "rarely left" their hotel.
The shooting—described as Australia's most severe mass shooting since 1996—has been formally designated a act of terrorism.
"We are actively examining the footage," the commissioner said, noting that early assessments show that "the two men are believed to have operated independently."
National law enforcement Commissioner Krissy Barrett informed reporters on Tuesday that CCTV footage documenting the accused attackers' movements in the Philippines had been provided to Australian authorities.
"There is no evidence to suggest these accused individuals were part of a larger network, or were directed by others to execute an incident," the police chief stated.
Yet, the pair were additionally not in the Philippines for tourism, she added. She underscored that, since the inquiry is continuing, fresh information may emerge.
Ideology and Legal Charges
In prior statements, the nation's leader Anthony Albanese said it seems both alleged gunmen were "motivated by ISIS" beliefs.
During the incident, Sajid Akram was fatally shot by police. He and his son Naveed—reportedly carrying long-barrelled guns—allegedly shot participants at the Jewish festival celebration.
Naveed Akram, who was injured and taken to hospital after the shooting, has been formally accused of 59 offences. These encompass 15 charges of murder and one count of committing a act of terrorism. He is expected to face court in April.
Travel Information
In the days following the shooting, border officials in the Philippines stated that the father had arrived in the country using an foreign passport, while his son used an domestic 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 sprawling urban center on the east of Mindanao, the Philippines' primary island in the south. The region is known because, Islamist fighters have reportedly operate in poorer parts of southern and western Mindanao.
