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

The pair of accused attackers responsible for the fatal attack at a Jewish gathering on Bondi Beach, resulting in 15 lives, reportedly operated independently, according to national law enforcement.

Police also confirmed that Sajid Akram, 50, and his son Naveed Akram travelled to the Philippines on 1 November. Their travel plans included landing in the capital Manila before traveling onward that same day to Davao City. The duo returned to Sydney on 29 November.

Lack of Proof of Preparation During Trip

Police assert the individuals did not receive any form of terrorist coaching or "planning" during their visit in the Philippines. Early findings from local officials point to they "mostly stayed in" their hotel.

The incident—described as Australia's most severe firearm massacre since 1996—has been formally declared a act of terrorism.

"We are actively examining the evidence," she said, adding that initial assessments suggest that "the two men are suspected to have acted alone."

Australian Federal Police Commissioner Krissy Barrett briefed the press on Tuesday that surveillance material showing the alleged gunmen's movements in the Philippines had been provided to domestic authorities.

"Our investigation shows little to no indication to indicate these suspects were part of a broader terrorist cell, or were instructed by others to carry out an incident," the police chief stated.

But, the men were also not in the Philippines as tourists, the official noted. She underscored that, since the investigation is ongoing, new evidence could come to light.

Motivation and Court Proceedings

In prior statements, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese remarked it seems both alleged gunmen were "inspired by the so-called Islamic State" ideology.

During the shooting, Sajid Akram was shot dead by responding officers. He and his son Naveed—reportedly carrying firearms—allegedly opened fire on guests at the Hanukkah celebration.

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

Travel Information

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

The pair had listed the metropolis of Davao as their final destination. Their pre-arranged journey back to Australia was for Sydney.

Davao is a sprawling urban center on the eastern side of Mindanao, the Philippines' main island in the south. Historically, Islamist militants have been known to operate in poorer parts of central and south-western Mindanao.