Time's up for people smuggler
A 40-year-old Melbourne man alleged to have facilitated multiple people smuggling ventures between 2010 and 2013 has been arrested overnight and has faced court today.
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) alleges that the man facilitated numerous non-citizens to enter Australia on illegal maritime ventures – the majority of which arrived in 2013.
The man was arrested at Melbourne International Airport last night (Sunday, 10 January) as he attempted to depart Australia.
On Monday 11 January, members of the AFP executed search warrants at the man’s Mill Park residence.
AFP Commander Disruption and Deterrence Task Group, Commander Glen McEwen said the AFP remains committed to bring people smugglers before the courts.
“We know there are people in Australia and abroad who believe they have avoided the law for their crimes,” Commander McEwen said.
“This arrest should serve as a strong warning that the AFP (as part of Operation Sovereign Borders) continues to actively investigate allegations of people smuggling – even where the arrival of boats occurred a number of years ago.
“The message is simple - those who seek to facilitate and profit from an industry that exploits vulnerable people and is inherently dangerous remain firmly in our sights.”
The 40-year-old Mill Park man has been charged with one count of aggravated people smuggling contrary to Section 233C of the Migration Act 1958 (Cth) and three counts of people smuggling contrary to Section 233A of the Migration Act 1958 (Cth).
He appeared in the Melbourne Magistrates Court today and has been granted bail.
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AFP National Media: 02 6131 6333