The two suspected individuals responsible for the lethal shooting at a Hanukkah celebration on Bondi Beach, which claimed 15 lives, reportedly operated independently, as stated by Australian police.
Investigators further stated that Sajid Akram, 50, and his 24-year-old son Naveed Akram flew to the Philippines on 1 November. Their travel plans involved landing in the capital Manila before connecting on the day of arrival to Davao City. The father and son flew back to Sydney on 29 November.
Lack of Proof of Planning During Trip
Investigators have stated the pair did not receive any form of terrorist instruction or "logistical preparation" during their visit in the Philippines. Early investigations from Philippine officials suggest they "rarely left" their accommodation.
The attack—labeled as Australia's worst mass shooting since 1996—has been formally designated a act of terrorism.
"Our teams are currently examining the evidence," she stated, adding that early evaluations indicate that "the alleged offenders are alleged to have acted alone."
Australian Federal Police Commissioner Krissy Barrett informed the press on Tuesday that security camera video showing the alleged gunmen's movements in the Philippines had been provided to domestic investigators.
"Our investigation shows no evidence to support the idea these alleged offenders were members of a wider network, or were instructed by overseas entities to perpetrate an act of violence," the police chief said.
Yet, the duo were additionally not in the Philippines on a leisure trip, she noted. She emphasized that, since the probe is continuing, fresh information could surface.
Motivation and Legal Proceedings
Earlier, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese remarked it seems both accused gunmen were "inspired by Islamic State" ideology.
During the shooting, Sajid Akram was fatally shot by police. He and his son Naveed—reportedly carrying firearms—are accused of having opened fire on attendees at the Jewish festival celebration.
Naveed Akram, who was wounded after the shooting, has been charged with 59 offences. These encompass 15 counts of murder and one count of committing a act of terrorism. He is due to face court in April.
Immigration Information
In the aftermath following the shooting, border officials in the Philippines reported that the older suspect had entered the country using an foreign passport, while his younger suspect used an Australian passport.
The duo had stated the metropolis of Davao as their final destination. Their pre-arranged journey back to Australia was for Sydney.
Davao is a expansive urban center on the east of Mindanao, the Philippines' largest southern island. It is noted that, Islamist fighters have reportedly be active in less developed parts of central and south-western Mindanao.
