New details have emerged in the investigation into the deadly Bondi Beach attack in Sydney, with Philippine immigration authorities saying the accused father-son duo visited the Philippines last month and may have travelled using Indian passports, according to reported statements cited in international media.

The suspects — Sajid Akram (50) and his son Naveed Akram (24), described as being of Pakistan origin — reportedly entered the Philippines on November 1 and left on November 28, a spokesperson from the country’s Bureau of Immigration was quoted as saying. The two listed Davao as their final destination before flying onward via Manila to Sydney, the official said.

Authorities in the Philippines have said they are looking into why the pair visited, where they stayed, and what activities they may have carried out during the trip. Australian reports have also cited security sources suggesting the men may have travelled there for “military-style training,” a claim now under investigation.

What police say they have found so far

In Australia, officials said a vehicle linked to the younger suspect allegedly contained improvised explosive devices and homemade flags linked to ISIS, which is designated a terrorist organisation in Australia and other countries.

New South Wales Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon said investigators are examining the Philippines trip and that there was no indication of a security alert being triggered when the pair travelled. He also rejected the idea that the case pointed to an intelligence failure.

Motive and background

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said early indications suggest the attackers were influenced by an “ideology of hate,” and was quoted in Australian media saying the incident appeared to be motivated by Islamic State ideology.

Investigators have alleged the two told family members they were going on a fishing trip, but instead stayed at a short-term rental in Campsie, where police believe planning took place. Counterterror officers later searched the property and recovered firearms, according to local reports.

The attack reportedly targeted Jewish attendees at a Hanukkah gathering, leaving 15 people dead and many injured, with multiple victims still in hospital. The Bondi Beach area remained under forensic and ballistic examination, with officials indicating it could reopen to the public after the initial crime-scene work is completed.