Bondi Beach Attackers Acted Alone, No Terror Network Links: Australian Police

Australian law enforcement agencies have ruled out terror-cell involvement in the deadly Bondi Beach attack, stating that the accused father-and-son duo acted independently. According to a report by news agency AFP, investigators have found no evidence that the suspects received militant training or established links with extremist organisations during their recent travel to the Philippines.

Australian Federal Police (AFP) Commissioner Krissy Barrett confirmed that while the accused displayed ideological motivations and engaged in international travel, the investigation has so far uncovered no operational or logistical connections to any recognised terrorist group.

“These individuals are alleged to have acted alone,” Commissioner Barrett told reporters. “There is no evidence to suggest these alleged offenders were part of a broader terrorist cell, nor that they were directed by others to carry out the attack.”

The suspects, identified as Sajid Akram and his 24-year-old son Naveed Akram, are accused of carrying out an ISIS-inspired mass shooting on December 14 during a Jewish Hanukkah gathering near Bondi Beach in Sydney. The attack left 15 people dead and shocked the nation.

During the incident, police shot and killed Sajid Akram, aged 50. Naveed Akram, an Australian citizen, was arrested at the scene and is currently in custody, facing 15 counts of murder along with multiple other serious criminal charges.

Philippines Travel Under Scrutiny

Investigators intensified surveillance after it emerged that the father and son had travelled to the southern Philippines just weeks before the attack. The region has previously been associated with extremist activity, prompting concerns about possible overseas radicalisation or training.

However, Commissioner Barrett clarified that the investigation has not uncovered any evidence linking the pair to extremist organisations operating in the Philippines. “We are continuing to examine why they travelled to Davao,” she said, referring to CCTV footage that showed the suspects rarely leaving their budget accommodation during their stay.

“I want to be very clear,” Barrett added. “I’m not suggesting they were there for tourism, but at this stage, we have found no links to militant groups or terror facilitators.”

Authorities believe the attack was meticulously planned over several months. Police have released images allegedly showing the pair conducting firearms training with shotguns in rural parts of Australia. According to AFP, investigators also recovered a video recorded in October in which the suspects denounced “Zionists” while seated in front of an Islamic State flag.

Heightened Security and National Response

In response to the attack, Sydney authorities have significantly increased security measures ahead of New Year’s Eve celebrations. New South Wales Premier Chris Minns announced that festivities will pause at 11 p.m. for a minute’s silence to honour the victims.

Armed police patrols will be deployed across major public spaces, particularly around the harbour and popular gathering areas, as part of heightened counter-terror and public safety operations.

At the national level, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese launched a renewed campaign against hate speech and illegal gun possession. He announced the largest firearms buyback initiative since Australia strengthened its gun laws following the 1996 Port Arthur massacre.

“The aim is clear—to remove dangerous weapons from circulation and prevent future tragedies,” Albanese said, underscoring the government’s commitment to public safety while reaffirming that authorities remain vigilant against lone-actor extremism.