A 58-year-old man from Coogee, Sydney, has been charged with multiple offences related to child abuse material and is set to appear in court today at the Downing Centre Local Court. He was arrested on December 11, 2024, after being accused of soliciting and possessing child abuse material. Reports indicate that he allegedly transmitted over 600 files, including child abuse material, to himself from May 2021 to October 2024, using an encrypted messaging platform.
Authorities became aware of his activities when he arrived in Sydney from the UAE on December 3 and was selected for a baggage examination by Australian Border Force (ABF) officers. Following a digital inspection of his phone and laptop, which led to the discovery of child abuse material on December 10, the Australian Federal Police (AFP) initiated an investigation. Subsequently, a search of his residence was conducted, where officers confiscated a bag containing approximately 25 video cassettes, a laptop, and three hard drives, two of which appeared to be damaged.
Following his arrest, the man was denied bail during his court appearance on December 12. He now faces severe legal repercussions, with potential penalties that could reach up to 15 years in prison for the charges he is confronting.
AFP Detective Inspector Emmanuel Tsardoulias issued a firm warning to individuals involved in such crimes, stating that those who engage in the procurement, access, or transmission of child abuse material will be detected, apprehended, and prosecuted. Similarly, ABF Superintendent Elke West emphasised the seriousness of these offences, warning perpetrators that they will face the consequences of their actions.
This case highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement in Australia to combat child exploitation and protect vulnerable children from harm.