The Australian Federal Police (AFP) Commissioner stated that the individuals responsible for the fatal mass shooting at Sydney’s Bondi Beach in December acted independently and were not part of a larger terrorist group. There is no evidence suggesting their involvement in a broader terrorist cell or being directed by others for the attack. The investigation revealed that the father-son duo, 50-year-old Sajid Akram and 24-year-old Naveed Akram, traveled to the Philippines from November 1 to November 29.
The AFP, in collaboration with the Philippine National Police, confirmed that the pair spent most of their time in Davao City and did not undergo any training or logistical preparations for the shooting during their stay in the Philippines. Despite this, authorities clarified that their visit was not for tourism purposes. Following the tragic incident at Bondi Beach, a significant number of police officers will be deployed to oversee New Year’s celebrations in Sydney.
The New South Wales (NSW) Police Force announced that over 2,500 officers, both in uniform and plain clothes, will be actively patrolling the Sydney metropolitan area during the New Year’s Eve festivities. With an estimated one million spectators expected for the iconic fireworks display over Sydney Harbor, the heightened police presence aims to ensure public safety and provide reassurance to the community after the Bondi Beach shooting. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese had outlined the terms for an independent review of the terror attack at Bondi Beach, rejecting calls for a royal commission.
