Australian authorities have disclosed that the two men accused of carrying out the terror attack at Bondi Beach last December did not receive military training during a lengthy stay in the Philippines prior to the incident.
Key Details of the Suspects' Travel
During a press conference on Tuesday, Australian Federal Police Commissioner Krissy Barrett provided new information about the overseas trip taken by the alleged perpetrators. According to travel records, Sajid and Naveed Akram departed Sydney for Manila on 1st November 2025. They proceeded to Davao City on the same day and remained in the Philippines until their return to Sydney on 29th November 2025.
Commissioner Barrett stated, "I can confirm the two individuals who we allege are responsible for the terror attack at Bondi Beach on 14th December this year spent almost a month in the Philippines."
Assessment from Philippine Authorities
The initial investigation by the Philippine National Police indicates that the father and son pair rarely left their hotel during their time in Davao City. Crucially, there is no evidence to suggest they received any form of terrorist training or undertook logistical preparations for the alleged attack while in the country.
"The initial assessment... is that the individuals rarely left their hotel, and there is no evidence to suggest they received training or underwent logistical preparation for their alleged attack," Barrett conveyed to the media.
Implications for the Investigation
This development supports the theory that the accused acted independently. Commissioner Barrett emphasised this remains a "point in time" assessment but stated clearly: "What this points to... is that these individuals are alleged to have acted alone."
There is no current evidence to indicate the alleged offenders were part of a wider terrorist cell or were directed by external actors. The AFP is now reviewing CCTV footage from the Philippines that has been shared by local authorities, which captured the suspects' stay.
The confirmation from the government and the AFP adds a significant layer to the understanding of the events leading up to the Bondi Beach attack, pointing towards a lone-actor scenario rather than a coordinated, internationally planned operation.
