SYDNEY: The suspected gunman involved in the Bondi Beach shooting in Sydney, Australia, has been formally charged, according to international news agencies.
Australian police confirmed that the injured attacker has been indicted on 50 charges, including terrorism-related offenses.
Meanwhile, Philippine presidential spokesperson Clarie Castro stated that there is no evidence of terrorist training during the attackers’ visit to the Philippines. She rejected reports suggesting that the country was used as a training hub by ISIS, saying no proof has been presented to support such claims.
Philippine military spokesperson Colonel Fransel Padilla added that no major counter-terrorism operations have taken place since the start of 2024, and insurgent groups in the country remain scattered and without leadership.
The Bondi Beach attack, which occurred three days ago, involved two armed assailants who killed 16 people and injured 40 others. One attacker was arrested on the scene, while the other was later taken into custody.
The deceased attacker has been identified as Sajid Akram, a resident of Hyderabad in India’s Telangana state. His son, Naveed Akram, who holds Australian citizenship, was also involved. Sajid Akram had arrived in Australia on a student visa in 1998, while his son was born in Australia.
The incident has sparked international attention and raised concerns over security measures at public spaces in Australia.