Australian authorities said Tuesday that the two men accused of killing 15 people at a Jewish event on Bondi Beach acted alone and were not part of a broader terrorist cell.

Police confirmed that Sajid Akram, 50, and his son Naveed Akram, 24, traveled to the Philippines on November 1, arriving in Manila before transiting to Davao City, and returned to Sydney on November 29. Early investigations suggest they did not undergo training or logistical preparation for the December 14 attack, with authorities noting the pair “rarely left their hotel” during the visit.

Australian Federal Police Commissioner Krissy Barrett said CCTV footage from the Philippines is under review and initial assessments indicate the men acted independently. “There is no evidence to suggest these alleged offenders were part of a broader terrorist cell or were directed by others,” she said, adding that the investigation is ongoing and new information may emerge.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the alleged gunmen appeared motivated by Islamic State ideology. Sajid Akram was killed by police during the attack, while Naveed Akram, hospitalized afterward, faces 59 charges, including 15 counts of murder and one of committing a terrorist act, and is due in court in April.

Source: BBC