Media Release
Man faces court after alleged assault of AFP officers at Sydney Airport
A Kogarah man will face Downing Centre Court today (16 June, 2025) charged with allegedly assaulting AFP officers at Sydney Airport during an incident last month (May).
The man, 49, was arrested on 2 May, 2025, after the AFP responded to a request for assistance in the domestic terminal 2 just before 6pm, about an allegedly intoxicated man.
AFP officers tried to speak to the man but he allegedly became verbally and physically aggressive and was then arrested.
The man received watch house bail from Mascot Police station and was charged with:
- One count of obstruction of Commonwealth public officials, contrary to section 149.1 of the Criminal Code (Cth). The maximum penalty for this offence is two years’ imprisonment; and
- One count of conduct causing public nuisance, contrary to section 4BZ(1)(b) of the Airports (Control of On-Airport Activities) Regulations 1997 (Cth). The maximum penalty for this offence is a $3300 infringement.
AFP Detective Acting Superintendent Davina Copelin said antisocial or aggressive behaviour towards police, workers or members of the public would not be tolerated.
“Travellers and workers should not have to deal with bad behaviour from others. If you attack police officers or anyone else, expect consequences,” Det a/Supt Copelin said.
“Police will act swiftly when alerted to these incidents, whether they are on the street or in airports.”
The AFP provides aviation security at nine major airports in Australia.
Stop and think. A safe journey starts with you.
Every piece of information you provide could be the key to identifying and preventing a threat at our airports. That's why the AFP is asking you to adopt the; "See it. Hear it. Report it." approach.
Behaviours to report include:
- Taking photos of security cameras, screening, or perimeter fencing
- Avoiding screening
- Leaving bags unattended
- Loitering
- Concealing identity
- Exhibiting erratic behaviour
If you see it or hear it, report it to Airport Watch at 131 237 (131 AFP).
You can make a difference!
