A joint operation between the Australian Border Force, Australian Federal Police and Queensland Police Service concluded in the arrest of a fugitive allegedly attempting to flee Australia on a jet ski. It was identified the individual was likely a 57-year-old UK national who was subject to an outstanding warrant for drug related charges in Western Australia.
After the suspicions over the man, ABF Border Monitoring Officers, Torres Strait Councillors and community members identified the man’s travel path and his intention to purchase fuel to facilitate his travel to PNG.
He was attempting to cross the Torres Strait to reach Papua New Guinea but was located and detained on mudflats on the eastern side of Saibai Island – about eight kilometers (five miles) south of the Papua New Guinea mainland.
The Torres Strait is approximately 150 kilometers (93 miles) wide at its narrowest extent.
An Australian Federal Police spokesperson commented
This arrest sends a strong message to would-be fugitives – our reach across Australia is second to none, and we will use all our contacts and relationships to find you and bring you before a court.
