Accused Bondi Attackers Operated Independently and Did Not Undergo Preparation in the Philippines, Police Say.

The two suspected gunmen responsible for the lethal incident at a Hanukkah gathering on Bondi Beach, which claimed 15 lives, reportedly acted alone, according to Australian authorities.

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

No Evidence of Preparation During Stay

Investigators assert the individuals did not partake in any form of terrorist instruction or "logistical preparation" during their stay in the Philippines. Preliminary inquiries from Philippine authorities suggest they "hardly ventured out of" their accommodation.

The shooting—declared Australia's deadliest firearm massacre since 1996—has been formally declared a terrorist incident.

"We are actively examining the material," she stated, noting that early evaluations suggest that "the two men are suspected to have operated independently."

National law enforcement Commissioner Krissy Barrett told the press on Tuesday that security camera video showing the alleged gunmen's activities in the Philippines had been provided to domestic investigators.

"Our investigation shows no evidence to suggest these accused individuals were affiliated with a wider network, or were instructed by others to carry out an incident," Commissioner Barrett said.

Yet, the duo were additionally not necessarily in the Philippines for tourism, the official added. She emphasized that, given that the probe is still active, additional details may come to light.

Motivation and Court Charges

In prior statements, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said it appears both alleged attackers were "influenced by ISIS" ideology.

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

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

Immigration Details

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

The duo had declared the southern city of Davao as their final destination. Their scheduled journey back to Australia was for Sydney.

Davao is a large city on the eastern side of Mindanao, the Philippines' largest southern island. Historically, Islamist groups have been known to be active in poorer parts of southern and western Mindanao.