Australian authorities have confirmed that the two gunmen responsible for the deadly Bondi Beach attack were not part of a wider terror network and acted alone. The incident, which took place on 14 December, killed 15 people at a Jewish Hanukkah event and has been declared Australia’s worst mass shooting since 1996.

Gunmen Traveled to the Philippines

Police confirmed that Sajid Akram, 50, and his son Naveed Akram, 24, traveled to the Philippines on 1 November, arriving in Manila before transiting to Davao City the same day. They returned to Sydney on 29 November.

Despite initial concerns, investigators found that the pair did not undergo training or logistical preparation for the attack while in the Philippines. Early assessments indicate that the father and son rarely left their hotel during the visit.

Australian Federal Police Commissioner Krissy Barrett told the media:

“There is no evidence to suggest these alleged offenders were part of a broader terrorist cell, or were directed by others to carry out an attack.”

However, Barrett noted that the pair were not in the Philippines purely for tourism, and the investigation remains ongoing.

Attack Motivated by Ideology

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated that the alleged gunmen were motivated by Islamic State ideology, emphasizing the ideological factor behind the attack rather than external coordination.

Sajid Akram was shot dead by police during the attack, while his son Naveed Akram survived and is currently hospitalized. Naveed has been charged with 59 offences, including 15 counts of murder and one count of committing a terrorist act, and is expected to appear in court in April.

Philippines Travel Details

Following the shooting, the Philippines immigration bureau confirmed that Sajid Akram entered the country on an Indian passport, while Naveed used his Australian passport. Their travel itinerary declared Davao City as the final destination, with Sydney as their return flight.

Davao, located on the main southern island of Mindanao, has historically seen activity from Islamist militants, particularly in impoverished areas of central and southwestern Mindanao. Investigators are reviewing CCTV footage from the Philippines to track the gunmen’s movements.

Investigation Continues

Commissioner Barrett emphasized that the investigation remains active, and new evidence may emerge. Authorities continue to examine whether any additional factors influenced the father and son in planning and executing the attack.