Media Release
Sydney man charged after allegedly exit trafficking a woman and leaving her stranded in Pakistan
Editor’s note: Arrest vision available via Hightail
A Sydney man, who allegedly took the passport of a woman known to him and left her stranded in Pakistan, appeared before Downing Centre Local Court today (8 October, 2026) charged with exit trafficking.
An AFP investigation began after receiving a report about a woman who was deceived into leaving Australia under the pretense of a holiday to Pakistan in early 2026.
The man, 35, allegedly obtained possession of the woman’s passport and identification documents prior to leaving Australia.
Once in Pakistan, he allegedly purchased a one-way return ticket to Australia for himself and did not disclose this to the woman.
A few days later, the woman was told she would stay in Pakistan permanently and the man would return to Australia.
It’s alleged the woman’s passport and identification documents were withheld, and she was prevented from returning to Australia.
A search warrant was executed at a Western Sydney home on 16 September, 2026, with AFP investigators seizing electronic devices, an airline ticket, and identification documents.
The man was charged with one count of facilitating the exit of another person from Australia by using threat, deception or coercion, contrary to section 271.2(1A) of the Criminal Code (Cth).
The man was granted conditional bail to appear in court today.
AFP Detective Superintendent Luke Needham said exit trafficking was an insidious offence that carried maximum jail terms of 12 years’ imprisonment.
“Carrying out actions to force or deceive someone to leave Australia is a criminal offence, and the AFP will not hesitate to act and investigate these matters,” Det Supt Needham said.
“Potential indicators that an individual is being exit trafficked include travelling without a passport in their own possession, not having a return ticket or phone, and not being able to provide their personal contact details on bookings.
“If anyone suspects they, or someone they know, has been a victim of exit trafficking, the AFP encourages them to come forward. All reports will be taken seriously and appropriately assessed with dignity, and the AFP can help victims obtain the support and assistance.
If you suspect that you or another person is experiencing, or at risk of, modern slavery or human trafficking, call 131 AFP (237) or use the AFP’s confidential online form.
If you have immediate concerns for your safety, the safety of another person, or there is an emergency, dial Triple Zero (000).
