Accused Bondi Gunmen Operated Solo and Did Not Undergo Preparation in the Philippines, Investigators Say.

The two alleged gunmen responsible for the deadly attack at a Jewish gathering on Bondi Beach, which claimed 15 lives, appear to have been lone actors, according to Australian law enforcement.

Investigators further stated that Sajid Akram, 50, and his son Naveed Akram, 24, journeyed to the Philippines on 1 November. Their itinerary involved arriving in the main city Manila before transiting that same day to Davao City. The father and son flew back to Sydney on 29 November.

Lack of Proof of Preparation During Visit

Investigators indicate the pair did not partake in any type of attack-related training or "logistical preparation" during their visit in the Philippines. Initial investigations from local officials indicate they "rarely left" their hotel.

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

"We are currently examining the material," she said, explaining that early assessments indicate that "these individuals are believed to have been lone actors."

Australian Federal Police Commissioner Krissy Barrett briefed the press on Tuesday that surveillance material tracking the alleged gunmen's movements in the Philippines had been submitted to Australian investigators.

"Our investigation shows little to no indication to indicate these alleged offenders were part of a larger terrorist cell, or were acting on orders from external parties to execute an attack," Commissioner Barrett stated.

However, the duo were additionally not in the Philippines on a leisure trip, she noted. She underscored that, given that the inquiry is still active, fresh information could surface.

Inspiration and Legal Charges

In prior statements, Australian leader Anthony Albanese said it looks as though both accused gunmen were "inspired by ISIS" beliefs.

During the incident, Sajid Akram was shot dead by police. He and his son Naveed—equipped with long-barrelled guns—allegedly targeted guests at the Hanukkah event.

Naveed Akram, who was wounded after the attack, has been formally accused of 59 offences. These encompass 15 charges of murder and one count of committing a terrorist act. He is scheduled to face court in April.

Travel Particulars

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

The two had declared the southern city of Davao as their intended endpoint. Their scheduled journey back to Australia was for Sydney.

Davao is a large metropolis on the eastern side of Mindanao, the Philippines' primary island in the south. It is noted that, Militant militants have reportedly operate in poorer parts of southern and western Mindanao.