The two suspected attackers responsible for the lethal attack at a Jewish gathering on Bondi Beach, that took 15 lives, appear to have acted alone, as stated by Australian police.
Police further stated that Sajid Akram, 50, and his son Naveed Akram, 24, travelled to the Philippines on 1 November. Their itinerary included landing in the main city Manila before connecting on the day of arrival to Davao City. The pair flew back to Sydney on 29 November.
Lack of Proof of Planning During Stay
Investigators have stated the duo did not receive any form of attack-related instruction or "planning" during their visit in the Philippines. Initial investigations from local officials indicate they "hardly ventured out of" their accommodation.
The attack—described as Australia's deadliest mass shooting since 1996—has been officially declared a terrorist incident.
"We are currently examining the material," she stated, explaining that early evaluations indicate that "the two men are suspected to have acted alone."
National law enforcement Chief Krissy Barrett briefed the press on Tuesday that security camera video documenting the accused attackers' whereabouts in the Philippines had been provided to domestic authorities.
"There is no evidence to indicate these suspects were members of a broader terrorist cell, or were acting on orders from overseas entities to execute an incident," the police chief stated.
Yet, the men were additionally not necessarily in the Philippines for tourism, the official clarified. She underscored that, as the probe is continuing, fresh information might emerge.
Inspiration and Legal Proceedings
Previously, Australian leader Anthony Albanese said it appears both alleged attackers were "inspired by Islamic State" beliefs.
During the attack, Sajid Akram was killed by police. He and his son Naveed—reportedly carrying long-barrelled guns—allegedly shot attendees at the Hanukkah event.
Naveed Akram, who was hospitalised after the attack, has been charged with 59 crimes. These include 15 charges of murder and one count of perpetrating a terrorist act. He is due to face court in April.
Travel Information
In the aftermath following the shooting, immigration authorities in the Philippines stated that the older suspect had entered the country using an Indian passport, while his son used an Australian passport.
The pair had stated the southern city of Davao as their final destination. Their scheduled journey back to Australia was for Sydney.
Davao is a sprawling metropolis on the east of Mindanao, the Philippines' main southern island. It is noted that, Militant fighters have been known to operate in less developed parts of central and south-western Mindanao.
