A man has been charged following an extensive investigation into fraudulent compliance of 73 imported vehicles in Sydney, NSW Police say.
Detectives from the State Crime Command’s Property Crime Squad established Strike Force Chorley to investigate the irregular compliance of a large number of ‘grey import’ vehicles from Japan to Australia between 2010 and 2014.
In August 2014, strike force investigators executed a search warrant at a motor dealer on Bridge Street, Rydalmere, where they seized documents relating to vehicle compliance.
The business, a Registered Automotive Workshop, was authorised by the Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development to conduct compliance on imported motor vehicles.
It was also authorised to conduct eSafety Checks and Unregistered Vehicle Inspections (AUVIS) by Roads and Maritime Services.
Following extensive investigations, a 43-year-old man was arrested at Burwood Police Station about 1.15pm last Tuesday (12 July 2016).
Police will allege the man, who is the director of the business, falsified documents to the Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development that imported vehicles had been inspected by an authorised person.
He was charged with seven counts of dishonestly obtain property by deception.
He has been granted bail and is due to appear at Parramatta Local Court on Wednesday 31 August 2016.
In addition, the business has been deregistered, and all licences and certifications have been revoked.
Property Crime Squad Commander, Detective Superintendent Murray Chapman, said vehicle compliance laws are in place for the safety of all road users.
"Our inquiries have revealed there may be other vehicles purchased by members of the community that may not meet Australian Design Rules, as required by the Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development.
"All motorists are responsible for the safety of their own vehicle, so it is concerning that even when entrusting a specialist to assist with meeting regulations, their vehicle may not be roadworthy.
"In the past, there have been crashes and other incidents involving non-compliant vehicles, with some resulting in serious injury.
"We urge anyone with concerns about the safety of their vehicle to contact Roads and Maritime Service or the Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development," Det Supt Chapman said.
As investigations under Strike Force Chorley continue, anyone with information about fraudulent vehicle compliance is urged to contact Crime Stopers.
