The two suspected gunmen responsible for the lethal incident at a Hanukkah event on Bondi Beach, that took 15 lives, appear to have been lone actors, as stated by national law enforcement.
Authorities also confirmed that the 50-year-old Sajid Akram, and his son Naveed Akram travelled to the Philippines on 1 November. Their travel plans involved landing in the main city Manila before connecting that same day to Davao City. The duo flew back to Sydney on 29 November.
Lack of Proof of Planning During Visit
Authorities have stated the pair did not undergo any form of attack-related training or "planning" during their stay in the Philippines. Early inquiries from local officials indicate they "rarely left" their accommodation.
The incident—described as Australia's most severe mass shooting since 1996—has been officially declared a act of terrorism.
"Our teams are actively examining the footage," she said, explaining that early assessments indicate that "the alleged offenders are suspected to have operated independently."
Australian Federal Police Chief Krissy Barrett informed the press on Tuesday that surveillance material showing the accused attackers' whereabouts in the Philippines had been provided to Australian investigators.
"Our investigation shows no evidence to suggest these accused individuals were members of a larger network, or were instructed by others to perpetrate an incident," she said.
Yet, the men were likewise not necessarily in the Philippines for tourism, Commissioner Barrett clarified. She emphasized that, since the probe is continuing, fresh information might emerge.
Inspiration and Legal Charges
In prior statements, the nation's leader Anthony Albanese remarked it seems both alleged gunmen were "influenced by Islamic State" extremist views.
During the incident, Sajid Akram was killed by police. He and his son Naveed—both armed with rifles—allegedly opened fire on attendees at the Jewish festival event.
Naveed Akram, who was wounded after the attack, has been formally accused of 59 charges. These encompass 15 charges of murder and one count of perpetrating a act of terrorism. He is scheduled to face court in April.
Travel Particulars
In the aftermath following the shooting, border officials in the Philippines reported that the father had entered the country using an Indian passport, while his younger suspect used an Australian passport.
The pair had stated the southern city of Davao as their final destination. Their scheduled return flight to Australia was for Sydney.
Davao is a large city on the eastern side of Mindanao, the Philippines' main island in the south. It is noted that, Militant militants have been known to operate in poorer parts of central and south-western Mindanao.
