PNP: No terror training in Phl linked to Bondi Beach attack

Australian authorities have found no evidence that suspects in the deadly Bondi Beach shooting received terrorist training or logistical support in the Philippines, reinforcing earlier findings by the Philippine National Police (PNP).

On Wednesday, PNP chief Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. welcomed the assessment by Australian officials, saying it supported the police force’s position that the Philippines was not used as a base for extremist preparation prior to the attack.

The statement followed remarks by Australian Federal Police Commissioner Krissy Barrett, who said investigations showed no indication that the suspects underwent training or preparation during their visit to the Philippines in November 2025.

“We in the Philippine National Police welcome the statement made by Australian authorities as this reinforced our earlier intelligence findings about this incident,” Nartatez said.

“The Philippine government has already made significant gains in terms of security and peace and order in every community, and we are committed to ensuring that these are sustained,” he added.

Despite the findings, the PNP said it would continue coordinating with Australian authorities to determine the purpose of the suspects’ travel to the country.

Philippine authorities identified the suspects as Sajid Akram, 50, and his son, Naveed Akram, 24, both Australian nationals. Records showed the two arrived in the Philippines from Sydney on 1 November 2025, with Davao City listed as their final destination. They departed the country on 29 November, traveling from Davao to Manila before flying back to Sydney.

Days later, the two allegedly opened fire during a Jewish holiday celebration at Bondi Beach in Sydney, killing 15 people. Sajid Akram was shot dead by responding Australian police, while investigations into the incident continue.

Nartatez said the PNP would continue providing any information requested by Australian investigators and stressed the importance of international cooperation in preventing terrorism.

“Terrorism has no place in the international community. Through cooperation with our foreign counterparts, the PNP will continue to address transnational security threats and work to ensure peace and order are maintained in every community,” he said.