Australian authorities have confirmed that the two men accused of carrying out the deadly shooting at Bondi Beach acted alone and were not trained terrorists. The attack on December 14, which left 15 people dead and at least 40 wounded, was Australia's deadliest such incident since 1996.
Lone Actors Inspired by Extremism
The suspects, named as 50-year-old Sajid Akram and his son Naveed, spent most of November in Davao City in the Philippines before allegedly executing the attack. Investigators believe they were inspired by the Islamic State group.
However, the Philippine National Police confirmed the pair rarely left their hotel during their stay from November 1 to November 29. Australian Federal Police Commissioner Krissy Barrett stated there is no evidence they received tactical training or logistical support for the assault.
"These individuals are alleged to have acted alone," Commissioner Barrett said. "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, I want to be clear, I am not suggesting that they were there for tourism."
Heightened Security for New Year Celebrations
In the wake of the atrocity, pressure is mounting to ensure public safety during upcoming New Year's Eve celebrations. Authorities in New South Wales have announced a significant security operation for Sydney.
2,500 police officers will be deployed across the city, with many carrying firearms. New South Wales Premier Chris Minns emphasised the need for a robust response following the worst terrorism event in Australia's recent history.
"It's an opportunity to thumb our nose at the terrorists and their ideology that really would have us living in a ball and not celebrating this beautiful city," Premier Minns declared. "So this is an opportunity to live your life and show defiance to that kind of ideology."
Aftermath and Charges
During the Bondi Beach massacre, Sajid Akram was shot and killed by police. His son, Naveed, was hospitalised and has since been charged with 59 offences. These charges include 15 counts of murder and one count of committing a terrorist act.
The southern Philippines region has historically drawn small numbers of foreign militants linked to groups like Islamic State or al-Qaeda, often for training in local conflicts. However, the police investigation has firmly ruled out any such activity in this case, painting a picture of two isolated individuals radicalised from afar.
