Media Release
Second man charged by North Queensland Joint Organised Crime Taskforce over alleged people smuggling attempt
This is a joint media release between the Australian Federal Police (AFP), Queensland Police (QPS) and Australian Border Force (ABF)
The North Queensland Joint Organised Crime Taskforce (NQJOCTF) has charged a second man over his alleged role in a failed people smuggling venture into Australia.
The AFP and ABF spoke with the Chinese national, 30, in a supermarket carpark at Weipa in Far North Queensland on Tuesday (30 June, 2026), following a report from the community about suspicious activity in the area.
He was initially detained under the Migration Act, while a Taiwanese national, 34, was arrested and charged over his alleged role in the venture. That man remains before the courts.
As a result of further inquiries, the 30-year-old man was arrested today (2 July, 2026) and charged with one count of aggravated offence of people smuggling (involving at least five persons), contrary to section 233C(1) of the Migration Act 1958 (Cth).
The maximum penalty for this offence is 20 years' imprisonment.
He is expected to appear before Cairns Magistrates Court tomorrow (3 July, 2026).
Investigations are ongoing.
Anyone with information about suspicious activity in their community is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. In an emergency or life-threatening situation, contact Triple Zero (000).
Information about suspicious or illegal immigration, visa, customs, trade or maritime activity can be reported online to Border Watch.
In February 2026, the AFP and Queensland Police Service launched the NQ JOCTF to protect vulnerable communities and Australian sovereignty by targeting organised crime, such as people smuggling and drug trafficking.
The NQ JOCTF comprises the AFP, Queensland Police Service, Australian Border Force and Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission.
