Australian Federal Police believe the father and son accused of carrying out the nation's deadliest terrorist attack acted entirely on their own, with no links to a wider network.
Attack Details and Alleged Motivation
Sajid Akram, 50, and his 24-year-old son Naveed are alleged to have killed 15 innocent people in a shooting at a Chanukah by the Sea event on Bondi Beach on December 14. The attack was immediately declared an act of terrorism.
Investigations revealed the pair had returned to Australia on November 29 after a lengthy trip to the Philippines, a country known in some instances for terrorist training. However, AFP Commissioner Krissy Barrett stated there is no evidence they received such training or were part of a cell.
"These individuals are alleged to have acted alone," Commissioner Barrett said. "There is no evidence to suggest these alleged offenders were part of a broad terrorist cell, or were directed by others to carry out an attack."
Philippines Trip Under Scrutiny
While Philippine National Police assessment indicated the Akrams rarely left their hotel, Commissioner Barrett was clear the visit was not for tourism. CCTV footage from the Philippines remains under review as part of the ongoing investigation.
"We have been working with the Philippine National Police to counter terrorism in our region for decades, and their assistance during the past fortnight has been absolutely crucial," Barrett added, emphasising the importance of regional cooperation in fighting extremism.
Evidence and Broader Security Review
NSW Police allege Naveed had been planning the shooting for months with his father, who was shot and killed during the incident. Naveed now faces 59 offences related to the attack.
Footage allegedly found on Naveed's phone shows the pair sitting before an IS flag with firearms and ammunition, reciting from the Quran. Police state they then made statements justifying the 'Bondi attack' and condemning Zionists.
The case has triggered a major independent review of Australia's intelligence and federal law enforcement agencies in the lead-up to the attack. Led by former Defence Department Secretary Dennis Richardson AC, the review will examine what could have been done to prevent the tragedy and how to stop future attacks.
Commissioner Barrett concluded that countering radicalisation remains critical to keeping Australia and the region safe, as the nation grapples with the aftermath of the horrific event.
