The first contingent of Ruby Princess crew members will begin the process of repatriation to their home countries today (Tuesday 21 April 2020), as a multi-agency operation led by NSW Police Force begins.
NSW Police Force has worked closely with Australian Border Force, Australian Federal Police, NSW Health, Aspen Medical, Carnival Cruises and government officials from numerous overseas jurisdictions to ensure the safe movement and eventual return of the crew members to their countries of origin.
Officers from the Marine Area Command, assisted by Transport for NSW, NSW Health and the Australian Defence Force, will today disembark at least 49 crew members from six countries.
One of the 49 crew members has tested positive for COVID-19. Upon disembarkation, the crew member will be taken to a NSW Health-managed hotel to undertake a strict 14-day quarantine period.
Stringent protocols are in place to ensure the movement of this person does not pose a risk to the public.
Once the 14-day quarantine period is exhausted, subject to a medical clearance by NSW Health, the crew member will be transported to Sydney Airport to fly back to their country of origin.
The remaining 48 crew members have tested negative for COVID-19. They will be disembarked this morning, and arrangements are being made for flights to return them to their home countries.
More crew members will be disembarked from the Ruby Princess over the coming days, and details of those operations will be provided to media in due course.
A significant number of crew members will remain on the Ruby Princess and return with the ship to its port of origin.
NSW Police Force Commissioner Mick Fuller praised the co-ordinated effort to keep those on and off the ship safe.
"Today's operation is the culmination of a significant joint effort by a number of agencies, and that effort will continue until we have ensured the safety and movement of every crew member, in line with their wishes," Commissioner Fuller said.
"The health of those on board and protecting the people of NSW always has been – and will continue to be – our number one priority.
"The movement of the first crew contingent today is an important milestone, and has us one step closer to the Ruby Princess leaving Australian waters."
Investigations under Strike Force Bast surrounding the docking and disembarking of the Ruby Princess at Sydney Harbour on Thursday 19 March 2020 are continuing.
Anyone who has information relevant to the investigation, including details of symptoms, illness, or medical advice during the voyage is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au.
The community is reminded that their information is treated in strict confidence.
