It has been claimed that individuals involved in the Sydney attack have links to India.
A close associate of Naveed Akram has confirmed that the suspects involved in the attack have an Indian background. Speaking to Australian media, a local resident stated that the accused are linked to India, while Naveed Akram’s mother is of Italian origin.
According to reports, India—despite leveling allegations against Pakistan—now appears to be facing scrutiny itself in this matter. Australian media has reported that the possibility of the Sydney attackers having links with terrorist organizations is under investigation. Police have reportedly recovered a black flag associated with ISIS from the attackers’ vehicle.
It has also been disclosed that a father and son involved in the case traveled to the Philippines last month, and authorities are investigating the nature and purpose of that visit.
In the past as well, connections between Australian citizens and extremist elements operating in the Philippines have come to light. Australia designated an ISIS-affiliated group active in the Philippines as a terrorist organization in 2017.
Further details regarding the Sydney attack suspects have also emerged. Media reports state that no evidence has been found linking the attackers to Pakistan, nor have any indications of a family or support network in Pakistan associated with Sajid Akram been identified.
The Pakistani-origin Australian community has also stated that it is unfamiliar with the identities of the two individuals. Australian authorities have confirmed that both the father and son are Australian citizens.
According to officials, Sajid Akram arrived in Australia in 1998 on a student visa, which was converted into a partner visa in 2001.
Naveed Akram was born and raised in Australia. Within minutes of the attack, a coordinated anti-Pakistan campaign was launched, attempting to link a young man named Naveed Akram to the incident.
It is noteworthy that significant donations have been raised for the medical treatment of Ahmed, the man who attempted to disarm the attacker during the Sydney incident. A total of USD 775,000 has reportedly been collected to cover hospital expenses, including a donation of USD 99,999 from American billionaire Bill Ackman.
Earlier, a terrorist attack in Sydney’s coastal area resulted in multiple fatalities, while around 40 people, including two police officers, were injured. In a police response, one attacker was killed and another was arrested in an injured condition. Explosive material was also recovered from a vehicle near the crime scene.
