A man has been arrested and charged after Australian Border Force (ABF) officers at Sydney Airport allegedly found him in possession of child exploitation material.
The 48-year-old Australian man arrived on a flight from Singapore on 21 February 2019. He was targeted for an examination by ABF officers after being identified through intelligence-informed operational activity.
During a search of the man's luggage, officers located a mobile phone, which was allegedly found to contain child exploitation material.
The man was arrested and charged with the Importation of Tier 2 Goods contrary to s233BAB(5) of the Customs Act 1901.
He was refused bail and is due to appear at Central Local Court today (27 February 2019).
ABF Regional Commander NSW Danielle Yannopoulos said this type of material has no place in Australia.
"Thanks to the combination of the ABF's operational, investigative and intelligence capabilities, we've been able to stop this abhorrent material from entering the country," Commander Yannopoulos said.
"The ABF will not hesitate to pursue those involved with this sickening trade, and will continue to do what we can to protect children both in Australia and overseas."
The maximum penalty for the importation of child exploitation material is 10 years imprisonment and/or a fine of up to $525,000.
Anyone with information about the illicit importation and export of child exploitation material should contact Border Watch at australia.gov.au/borderwatch.
By reporting suspicious activities, you help protect Australia's border. Information can be provided anonymously.
