Accused Bondi Beach Attackers Operated Solo and Received No Preparation in the Philippines, Investigators Say.

The two alleged gunmen who carried out the fatal shooting at a Jewish celebration on Bondi Beach, that took 15 lives, are believed to have been lone actors, according to Australian authorities.

Police also confirmed that Sajid Akram, 50, and his 24-year-old son Naveed Akram, 24, flew to the Philippines on 1 November. Their itinerary included arriving in the capital Manila before transiting that same day to Davao City. The duo flew back to Sydney on 29 November.

Lack of Proof of Preparation During Trip

Police indicate the duo did not receive any type of terrorist coaching or "organizing" during their visit in the Philippines. Preliminary findings from local officials indicate they "mostly stayed in" their hotel.

The attack—labeled as Australia's most severe mass shooting since 1996—has been officially declared a act of terrorism.

"We are currently analyzing the material," the commissioner stated, explaining that early assessments indicate that "these individuals are believed to have been lone actors."

Australian Federal Police Chief Krissy Barrett told reporters on Tuesday that security camera video documenting the alleged gunmen's whereabouts in the Philippines had been provided to Australian authorities.

"There is little to no indication to suggest these suspects were part of a larger organization, or were acting on orders from overseas entities to carry out an act of violence," the police chief emphasized.

Yet, the pair were likewise not in the Philippines as tourists, the official noted. She underscored that, since the inquiry is continuing, additional details could surface.

Inspiration and Court Proceedings

In prior statements, the nation's leader Anthony Albanese said it appears both alleged attackers were "influenced by ISIS" beliefs.

During the shooting, Sajid Akram was shot dead by police. He and his son Naveed—both armed with firearms—are accused of having targeted guests at the Jewish festival celebration.

Naveed Akram, who was wounded after the attack, has been charged with 59 crimes. These encompass 15 charges of murder and one count of perpetrating a act of terrorism. He is expected to face court in April.

Travel Particulars

In the aftermath following the attack, border officials in the Philippines stated that the father had entered the country using an foreign passport, while his younger suspect used an Australian passport.

The pair had listed the metropolis of Davao as their intended endpoint. Their booked journey back to Australia was for Sydney.

Davao is a sprawling city on the east of Mindanao, the Philippines' main southern island. Historically, Militant groups have reportedly operate in poorer parts of central and south-western Mindanao.