MANILA — The Bureau of Immigration (BI) confirmed that the suspects involved in the Bondi Beach shooting in Australia over the weekend stayed in the Philippines last month.

BI Spokesperson Dana Sandoval said Sajid Akram, 50, and Naveed Akram, 24, both Indian nationals, arrived in the Philippines from Sydney on November 1.

“Both reported Davao as their final destination,” she said. “They left the country on Nov. 28, 2025 on a connecting flight from Davao to Manila, with Sydney as their final destination.”

Sandoval noted that Naveed is an Indian-Australian citizen.

On Sunday, the suspects opened fire on crowds during a celebration at Sydney’s Bondi Beach, killing 15 people and wounding several others.

Philippine National Police (PNP) spokesperson Brig. Gen. Randulf Tuaño said PNP acting chief Police Lieutenant General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. was coordinating with the BI regarding the matter.

“The [acting Chief PNP], thru the [Directorate for Intelligence] is validating the said report and coordination with BI is underway,” he said.

Following the attack, Nartatez assured the public that the PNP will remain on high alert to prevent any untoward incidents. Police units nationwide have been instructed to strengthen their presence in public areas, major thoroughfares, and key venues where holiday events and gatherings are expected.

“The Philippine National Police is maintaining heightened vigilance to deter provocateurs and prevent any security threat,” Nartatez said. “I have directed our commanders to deploy sufficient numbers of personnel to ensure visible police presence in crowded areas to provide security reassurance to the public while discouraging potential troublemakers.” (PNA)