An 82-year-old Hunter Valley man has been arrested by Australian Border Force (ABF) officers after a mobile device search uncovered alleged child abuse material.
The man was subject to a baggage examination prior to his scheduled departure to Denmark on 15 March.
While examining the man's mobile device, ABF officers discovered a WhatsApp chat containing explicit imagery, which was determined to be alleged child abuse material.
The man was arrested and charged by the ABF under section 233BAB(6) of the Customs Act 1901 for attempting to export tier 2 goods.
If convicted, the man could face up to ten years in prison.
ABF Acting Commander Raef McDonough said that ABF officers frequently use intelligence along with specialised training to ensure individuals who attempt offences linked to child abuse material are stopped before they can cause further harm.
"There is no discretion when it comes to this vile material - if you are found to be in possession of it, our officers will investigate and take action" Acting Commander McDonough said.
"Importantly, the ABF works closely with law enforcement partners to identify and locate individuals who attempt to exploit children by consuming this material.
"It is not a victimless crime. Not only is child abuse material illegal, there are very real child victims who have been subject to abuse and harm in creating abhorrent images"
The man was granted bail subject to strict conditions, including the surrender of his passport and weekly reporting to NSW Police Force.
He is also prohibited from approaching schools or being in the company of minors.
Anyone with information about suspicious border activity or border-related crime can report it anytime through Border Watch at borderwatch.gov.au. Information can be provided anonymously.
