Philippine authorities have provided new insights into the activities of Sajid and Naveed Akram, the father-son duo implicated in the Bondi terror attacks, during their recent four-week visit to Davao City. According to police reports and statements from hotel staff, the Akram family spent the entirety of their stay in the city confined to their hotel, rarely venturing outside and engaging minimally with the local environment.
The Akram family arrived in the Philippines on November 1, 2025, and remained in Davao City until their departure on November 29, 2025. During this period, they reportedly left their hotel only for brief excursions, typically lasting no more than an hour. Hotel staff noted that the suspects did not interact with other guests or receive visitors, raising questions about the nature of their trip and the motivations behind their prolonged stay in the region.
The investigation into the Akram family’s activities has been closely monitored, particularly in light of speculation that they may have sought military training from Islamist groups known to operate in the Philippines. Davao City, located on the southern island of Mindanao, has been a focal point for various extremist factions, including Abu Sayyaf and the Maute group, which have been linked to terrorist activities in the region. However, Philippine police have dismissed these speculations, asserting that there is no evidence to support claims that the Akram family engaged in any form of training or coordination with local militant groups during their visit.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) emphasized that their investigation has not uncovered any direct connections between the Akram family and terrorist organizations. They have stated that the suspects’ behavior during their stay was consistent with that of tourists rather than individuals seeking to engage in militant activities. The PNP’s findings are based on surveillance footage, hotel records, and interviews with staff, which collectively indicate that the Akram family maintained a low profile throughout their visit.
The implications of this investigation are significant, particularly for the ongoing discourse surrounding terrorism and security in the Philippines. The country has faced challenges in combating extremist groups, and the presence of foreign nationals, especially those linked to terror activities, raises concerns about the potential for international terrorism to take root in the region. The Philippine government has been under pressure to enhance its counter-terrorism measures, particularly in areas known for militant activity.
The Bondi terror attacks, which occurred in Australia in late November 2025, have heightened scrutiny of the Akram family’s movements and associations. The attacks, which resulted in multiple casualties, have been attributed to the alleged involvement of the Akram family, leading to increased vigilance among law enforcement agencies in both Australia and the Philippines. Australian authorities have been collaborating with their Philippine counterparts to gather intelligence and assess any potential threats stemming from the Akram family’s activities.
As the investigation continues, the Philippine police have reiterated their commitment to ensuring the safety and security of both residents and visitors in Davao City. They have also called for public vigilance and cooperation in reporting any suspicious activities. The PNP has stated that they will continue to monitor the situation closely and will take necessary actions to address any emerging threats.
The case of the Akram family underscores the complexities of addressing terrorism in a globalized world, where individuals can traverse borders with relative ease. It highlights the need for international cooperation in intelligence sharing and counter-terrorism efforts, particularly in regions where extremist groups may seek to exploit vulnerabilities.
In conclusion, while the investigation into the Akram family’s activities during their stay in the Philippines has not revealed any direct links to terrorist training, the case remains a focal point for discussions on national and international security. The ongoing collaboration between Philippine and Australian authorities will be crucial in addressing the broader implications of the Bondi terror attacks and ensuring that similar incidents do not occur in the future. As the situation develops, both nations are likely to remain vigilant in their efforts to combat the threat of terrorism.
