The Australian Government welcomes the news that a 34-year-old Afghan man was today sentenced to nine years jail by the District Court of Western Australia for his involvement in the smuggling of 13 people.
Ahmad Zia Alizadah was extradited from Indonesia in July 2017 following 'Operation Vinca' - an investigation by the Australian Federal Police into people smuggling. On four occasions between February 2009 and May 2010, 13 people illegally entered Australia by boat.
The Minister for Home Affairs Peter Dutton said combatting people smuggling continues to be a priority for the Government.
"We continue to send the strong message that we have zero tolerance for people smugglers, but unfortunately they continue to operate in our region and exploit vulnerable people for monetary gain," Mr Dutton said.
On 18 October 2018, following a 61 day trial, Mr Alizadah was found guilty of three counts of people smuggling and one count of aggravated people smuggling.
"The Government will continue to pursue people smugglers and ensure they are arrested and prosecuted," Mr Dutton said.
"This sentencing serves a reminder of the importance of continued effective collaboration with our international partners.
"Australians should never forget Labor allowed 50,000 people to arrive on 800 boats resulting in 1,200 people drowning at sea and 8,000 children being placed in immigration detention."
