Iraqi man is extradited from New Zealand and charged over a people smuggling operation that left 350 dead when a boat sank
A 43-year-old Iraqi man has been charged over a smuggling venture that left more than 350 people dead when a boat sank in international waters in 2001.
The man was taken into custody at Brisbane Airport on Friday evening, following his extradition from New Zealand.
He appeared before Brisbane Magistrates Court on Saturday and has been remanded in custody to reappear in court on October 31.
A 43-year-old Iraqi man (right) has been charged over a smuggling venture that left more than 350 people dead when a boat sank in international waters in 2001
Police will allege in court the man, part of a syndicate, took payments from passengers and helped with transport and accommodation in Indonesia in preparation for their journey to Australia.
The man has been charged with organising groups of non-citizens into Australia, contrary to migration laws. The maximum penalty is 10 years in jail.
Two other men have faced court over their role in the venture, which the Australian Federal Police started to investigate in October 2001.
AFP Commissioner Reece Kershaw on Saturday said the AFP were committed to bringing people smugglers to justice no matter how long it might take.
‘Let’s not lose sight of the fact that more than 350 people died in this tragedy,’ Commissioner Kershaw said.
‘They are owed justice and we remain committed to deterring those who profit from this trade.’
The man (right) appeared before Brisbane Magistrates Court on Saturday and has been remanded in custody to reappear in court on October 31