Australian authorities are investigating an overseas trip made by the two alleged gunmen behind the deadly Bondi Beach terror attack, as evidence points to inspiration from the Islamic State group.
Philippines Trip Under Scrutiny
New South Wales Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon stated on Tuesday that the duo, identified as Naveed Akram, 24, and his 50-year-old father Sajid, had recently travelled to the Philippines. The purpose and details of their journey are now a core part of the ongoing investigation into Sunday's horrific shooting.
"The reasons why they went to the Philippines, and the purpose of that, and where they went when they were there, is under investigation at the moment," Commissioner Lanyon told reporters.
Evidence of ISIS Inspiration Found
Police allege that improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and two homemade Islamic State flags were discovered in a car registered to Naveed Akram, which was parked at the scene of the attack. This discovery has led investigators to strongly suspect terrorist motivations.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed this line of inquiry, stating, "It would appear that there is evidence that this was [allegedly] inspired by a terrorist organisation, by ISIS."
The attack at the popular Sydney beachfront resulted in 16 fatalities, with another 25 people remaining in hospital as of Tuesday.
Background of the Alleged Attackers
The younger Akram, a bricklayer by trade, had previously come to the attention of the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO). Prime Minister Albanese revealed that Naveed was examined for a six-month period starting in October 2019 due to his alleged associations with individuals of concern.
Reports from the ABC suggest this earlier counter-terrorism investigation was linked to a suspected Islamic State cell. In a correction to earlier reports, Commissioner Lanyon clarified that Sajid Akram did not hold a gun licence a decade ago, but was instead issued one in 2023.
Following the attack, Naveed Akram was arrested at the scene and taken to a Sydney hospital with critical injuries. His father, Sajid, was shot dead by responding police officers.
