Media Release
Trio charged in Sydney over alleged role in failed people smuggling venture into the NT
Three people charged over their alleged involvement in the attempted smuggling of 10 foreign nationals on a boat into the Northern Territory in February, 2025, are expected to face Downing Centre Local Court today (28 August, 2025).
An Australian national, 35, and two foreign nationals, aged 33 and 34, are each charged with one count of the aggravated offence of people smuggling, contrary to section 233C of the Migration Act 1958 (Cth). Police bail was refused.
If convicted, they face a maximum penalty of 20 years’ imprisonment.
Police will allege the three men travelled to a remote part of the Northern Territory in February, 2025, in a failed attempt to facilitate the illegal entry of non-citizens into Australia by boat.
The AFP executed search warrants at homes in Bonnyrigg, Parramatta and Lidcombe, and a warehouse in Revesby yesterday (27 August, 2025). They seized about $300,000 cash and about 10,000 vapes.
Inquiries are ongoing and further charges cannot be ruled out.
