The Australian Border Force (ABF) and the Joint Anti Child Exploitation Team (a partnership between South Australia Police (SAPOL) and the Australian Federal Police (AFP) have arrested a 41-year-old man in Adelaide's northern suburbs, who has today (16 August 2023) appeared in Adelaide Magistrate Court.
The investigation was sparked after an international parcel was examined by ABF Air Cargo officers, who found it to contain a child-like sex doll.
On the 15 August 2023 ABF and JACET officers completed a joint agency operation, executing search warrants at an Adelaide home.
Officers seized a number of items including electronic devices containing child exploitation material, children's clothing, additional child-like sex dolls and items used in their manufacturing, narcotics, a number of guns, ammunition and items related to the manufacture of firearms.
The ABF charged the man with the importation of Tier 2 Goods, namely one Child Like Sex Doll, under section 233BAB(5) of the Customs Act 1901. The maximum criminal penalty for an offence under this section is a fine of up to $782,500 or imprisonment for 10 years or both.
SAPOL charged the man with three counts of possess child exploitation material, produce or take steps in the production of a childlike sex doll, trafficking in a controlled drug and 10 firearm offences.
ABF acting Superintended Tom Williams said protecting the most vulnerable members of our community from criminals who would commit these vile acts will always be a top priority for the ABF.
"We work closely with our law enforcement partners to target offenders of these horrific crimes and perform our critical work at the border," acting Superintendent Williams said.
"We will continue to make the Australian border a hostile place for those seeking to bring in illegal items - be it drugs, firearms or abhorrent child abuse material."
Detective Chief Inspector Matthew Lyons, Officer in Charge of SAPOL's Special Crimes Investigation Section said the South Australia Police along with their partner agencies are absolutely committed to preventing, detecting and stopping the sexual exploitation of children.
If you or someone you know are impacted by child sexual abuse and online exploitation there are support services available at www.accce.gov.au/support.
Members of the public who have information about people involved in child abuse and exploitation are urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.accce.gov.au/report.
AFP Detective Superintendent Melinda Adam said this arrest was another reminder of the commitment undertaken by the AFP and its partners to protect children and identify and prosecute anyone who seeks to exploit and harm them.
"This arrest should serve as a warning law enforcement is dedicated to fighting child sexual abuse and bringing those who commit these offences before the court," she said.
"The AFP is committed to working closely with its partners to take all necessary action to protect Australian children."
