Accused Bondi Beach Gunmen Operated Solo and Did Not Instruction in the Southeast Asian Nation, Investigators State.
The two suspected gunmen who carried out the fatal attack at a Jewish celebration on Bondi Beach, which claimed 15 lives, reportedly been lone actors, per Australian police.
Authorities additionally revealed that the 50-year-old Sajid Akram, and his son Naveed Akram flew to the Philippines on 1 November. Their itinerary included landing in the capital Manila before traveling onward on the day of arrival to Davao City. The duo returned to Sydney on 29 November.
Lack of Proof of Planning During Visit
Investigators have stated the duo did not undergo any type of attack-related training or "logistical preparation" during their stay in the Philippines. Preliminary findings from Philippine officials point to they "rarely left" their accommodation.
The incident—described as Australia's worst mass shooting since 1996—has been officially classified as a act of terrorism.
"Our teams are currently examining the evidence," she said, noting that early reviews show that "the two men are suspected to have operated independently."
Australian Federal Police Commissioner Krissy Barrett briefed the press on Tuesday that security camera video tracking the alleged gunmen's activities in the Philippines had been submitted to domestic investigators.
"There is little to no indication to indicate these alleged offenders were affiliated with a broader network, or were directed by external parties to perpetrate an incident," the police chief emphasized.
Yet, the duo were likewise not necessarily in the Philippines as tourists, Commissioner Barrett added. She stressed that, as the probe is ongoing, new evidence could come to light.
Inspiration and Legal Charges
In prior statements, Australian leader Anthony Albanese commented it seems both alleged attackers were "inspired by Islamic State" extremist views.
During the shooting, Sajid Akram was shot dead by police. He and his son Naveed—both armed with rifles—are accused of having opened fire on participants 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 carrying out a terrorist act. He is expected to appear in court in April.
Immigration Particulars
In the wake following the shooting, immigration authorities in the Philippines reported that the older suspect had arrived in the country using an Indian passport, while his son used an domestic passport.
The duo had declared the southern city of Davao as their final destination. Their pre-arranged journey back to Australia was for Sydney.
Davao is a sprawling metropolis on the eastern side of Mindanao, the Philippines' main island in the south. It is noted that, Islamist fighters have been known to operate in impoverished parts of central and south-western Mindanao.
