Philippines investigates movements of Bondi Beach shooting suspects before attack

Authorities in the Philippines have begun tracing the activities of Sajid and Naveed Akram, the father and son accused of carrying out the deadly Bondi Beach shooting in Sydney, which claimed fifteen lives and injured dozens during a Hanukkah celebration last Sunday. Investigators are now piecing together the pair’s movements during their four-week stay in the southern Philippine city of Davao before their return to Australia late last month.

Investigation into the Akrams’ stay in Davao

Philippine police have confirmed that Sajid and Naveed Akram checked into the GV Hotel in Davao City, where they stayed from early November until 28 November. Their sudden return to Australia only two weeks before the Sydney attack has raised questions about the purpose of their visit. Local police say they are examining the pair’s movements, contacts, and possible links to people in the region.

Regional police director Leon Victor Rosete told reporters that investigators are reviewing CCTV recordings and mobile phone data used by the suspects during their stay. “We are connecting every detail available to see whom they met, what they did, and what support networks may have existed,” he said. Rosete added that authorities are seeking footage from nearby establishments before they delete their recordings.

Visit to a firearms store

Rosete revealed that Sajid Akram showed particular interest in weapons during his time in the city, mentioning that he entered a firearms shop while staying in Davao. Although no direct evidence links him to any illegal purchase, police have noted this as a detail of concern. “The father had evident curiosity about guns, which we are examining closely,” Rosete explained.

CCTV footage also captured the two men taking regular morning walks around their hotel area, which police now believe may have been “physical conditioning” or training activity.

Continued cooperation with Australia

National Security Adviser Eduardo Año stated that the Philippines is working closely with Australian authorities to ensure no aspect of the case is overlooked. “We will leave no stone unturned. Our goal is to assist the Australian government and guarantee that any potential threat is neutralised here,” he said.

Hotel staff confirmed that the Akrams extended their booking multiple times, leading investigators to suspect that they might have been waiting for someone or something that never arrived. Officials, however, have cautioned against speculation, emphasising that their inquiry will be guided strictly by evidence.