MELBOURNE, Australia
An investigation involving the Philippines into two men suspected in the shooting deaths of 15 people at a Sydney Jewish festival has found no proof they were linked to a “widespread terrorist organization,” authorities reported on Tuesday.
Australian Federal Police Commissioner Chrissy Barrett stated that Sajid Akram, 50, and his son Naveed Akram, 24, spent a significant amount of time in Davao City, Philippines, throughout November.
They returned to Sydney on November 29, after flying from Manila. Just two weeks later, Naveed was charged in connection with the mass shooting that also left 40 others injured during a Hanukkah festival at Bondi Beach.
Barrett noted that the Philippine National Police found the two rarely left their hotel during their stay. “There’s no evidence suggesting they underwent any training or received logistical support for the alleged attack,” she explained to reporters.
She added, “These individuals are alleged to have acted alone. There’s no indication that they were part of a larger terrorist group or directed by anyone else to perform the attack. But, just to clarify, I’m not implying they were there for tourism,” Barrett remarked.
She did not delve into the reasons for their trip, starting November 1.
Authorities indicated that the Akram father and son may have been inspired by Islamic State ideology. Historically, the southern Philippines has attracted a small number of foreign militants associated with groups like Islamic State or al-Qaeda seeking training in separatist conflicts involving the country’s Muslim minority.
Barrett mentioned that she could only share limited details about the investigation in the Philippines as she aims to avoid impacting Naveed Akram’s case.
Naveed has yet to enter a plea on numerous charges, including 15 counts of murder and one of terrorism. He was hospitalized for a week after being shot in the abdomen by police during a confrontation in Bondi on December 14, which also led to his father’s death.
Following the tragic events, authorities announced an unprecedented police presence for New Year’s Eve celebrations on Sydney Harbor, with over 2,500 officers on duty. Some officers will visibly carry automatic weapons, a rare sight on Sydney’s streets.
The first responders to the Bondi shooting were armed with Glock-style pistols, which are less effective at range compared to the rifles and shotguns used by Naveed. Two police officers were among the wounded.
New South Wales Premier Chris Minns asserted that the state is not militarizing its police force in the wake of these attacks. “Given the gravest terrorist incident in Australian history within the last month, it’s apparent that changes are necessary for our security,” he stated.
“I recognize that some individuals oppose this and view it as an escalation of police militarization. However, I believe many families would welcome these police measures as they feel safer in such circumstances,” Minns added.
Every year, over a million people gather at the waterfront to witness the iconic fireworks display, especially around Sydney Harbor Bridge.
Minns expressed concern that extremists might interpret a reduction in public attendance as a success.
“It’s crucial to firmly denounce terrorists and their ideologies. Such ideologies create a shadow over the joy of celebrating our beautiful city. This is a chance to live boldly and defy such ideologies,” Minns said.
Sydney Mayor Clover Moore announced that images of a Jewish menorah will be projected onto the bridge’s pylons, and a moment of silence for the victims of the Bondi attack will take place at 11 PM on New Year’s Eve.
Initially, local authorities intended to project a dove with the word “peace,” but modified this decision after discussions with Jewish community representatives.
“We’ll keep engaging with the community to ensure that the horrific attack at Bondi Beach on New Year’s Eve is appropriately recognized,” Moore stated.
