Alleged Bondi Shooters Operated Independently and Received No Training in the Southeast Asian Nation, Authorities Say.

Police officials speaking at a media briefing
National law enforcement state there is lack of proof the accused Bondi attackers operated as members of a broader network.

The pair of accused gunmen who carried out the deadly attack at a Jewish event on Bondi Beach, that took 15 lives, appear to have acted alone, according to Australian law enforcement.

Police also confirmed that Sajid Akram, 50, and his son Naveed Akram flew to the Philippines on 1 November. Their travel plans included landing in the capital Manila before traveling onward 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 Visit

Authorities indicate the individuals did not partake in any type of attack-related training or "logistical preparation" during their stay in the Philippines. Preliminary findings from Philippine officials indicate they "rarely left" their hotel.

The incident—labeled as Australia's most severe mass shooting since 1996—has been formally designated a terrorist incident.

"Our teams are currently reviewing the material," the commissioner stated, explaining that early evaluations show that "the alleged offenders are alleged to have operated independently."

Australian Federal Police Chief Krissy Barrett informed the press on Tuesday that security camera video documenting the accused attackers' movements in the Philippines had been handed over to Australian authorities.

"Our investigation shows little to no indication to support the idea these accused individuals were members of a larger organization, or were instructed by others to execute an attack," she said.

But, the men were also not in the Philippines for tourism, the official clarified. She underscored that, since the probe is still active, additional details might emerge.

Ideology and Court Charges

Previously, Australian leader Anthony Albanese remarked it seems both accused gunmen were "influenced by Islamic State" extremist views.

During the incident, Sajid Akram was fatally shot by responding officers. He and his son Naveed—equipped with rifles—allegedly opened fire on guests at the Hanukkah celebration.

Naveed Akram, who was hospitalised after the shooting, has been formally accused of 59 crimes. These encompass 15 counts of murder and one count of carrying out a terrorist act. He is expected to appear in court in April.

Travel Details

In the days following the attack, immigration authorities in the Philippines reported that the father had entered the country using an foreign passport, while his son used an Australian passport.

The duo had listed the metropolis of Davao as their final destination. Their scheduled return flight to Australia was for Sydney.

Davao is a sprawling urban center on the east of Mindanao, the Philippines' main island in the south. Historically, Militant groups have been known to operate in less developed parts of southern and western Mindanao.

Amy Valentine
Amy Valentine

A seasoned casino analyst with over a decade of experience in slot machine mechanics and gambling strategies.