Australian authorities are delving deeper into the Bondi Beach terror attack, with investigators revealing that the father-son duo suspected of opening fire at a crowded Hanukkah celebration travelled to the Philippines in the weeks before the massacre. Officials are examining whether the trip included militant training or links to extremist networks, as the nation reels from one of its deadliest shootings in recent history.
Suspects’ Overseas Travel Under Scrutiny
Police confirmed that Sajid Akram, 50, and his son Naveed, 24, visited the Philippines in early November, returning to Sydney weeks before the December 14 attack at Archer Park near Bondi Beach in Sydney.
The visit has raised red flags among counter-terrorism officials due to ongoing militant activity in parts of the southern Philippines, where groups with links to extremist ideologies have been active. Authorities are working with Philippine officials to determine the exact nature of the pair’s travel and whether they underwent military-style training or met with extremist elements while abroad.
Deadly Attack Sparks National Outrage
The Bondi Beach shooting occurred during a Hanukkah celebration, killing at least 15 people and injuring more than two dozen others.
Sajid Akram was shot dead by police at the scene, while Naveed was critically wounded and taken to hospital — where he remains under guard.
Officials have described the shooting as ideologically motivated, possibly inspired by Islamic State (ISIS), citing evidence such as homemade IS flags and improvised explosive devices found in a vehicle linked to the suspects.
Investigation and Response
Authorities emphasize that no confirmed larger network involvement has been identified, but investigations are ongoing.
The tragedy has ignited debate in Australia over gun licensing laws, particularly how intelligence findings should factor into eligibility for firearm ownership. Both police and government leaders are considering reforms to tighten restrictions and improve threat detection mechanisms.
