A Manjimup man is expected to face Perth Magistrates Court today (30 May, 2024) charged with an alleged unprovoked assault on two strangers at Perth Airport this morning.
The AFP charged the man, 29, after responding to reports of a violent incident inside a domestic terminal just after 6am.
Police will allege the man walked past another man, 22, who was seated, and slapped him twice in the back of the head.
Several minutes later, the 29-year-old allegedly returned to the same area and punched a second man, 26, in the face, before grabbing him and pushing him into a wall.
Three men, including the 22-year-old who was allegedly hit earlier, stepped in to help the 26-year-old. During an attempt to restrain the accused, the 22-year-old allegedly received a blow to his chin from the 29-year-old, resulting in a cut that needed stitches.
AFP officers arrived a short time later and spoke with the accused, other travellers and witnesses.
During a search of the 29-year-old's luggage, police allegedly found two vials of anabolic steroids for which he did not have prescriptions.
The man, from the town of Manjimup in WA's South West, was arrested, charged and refused police bail.
The 22-year-old received first aid treatment at Perth Airport. The second man allegedly assaulted did not require medical treatment.
AFP Perth Airport Superintendent Peter Hatch said the AFP would not tolerate violent behaviour at airports.
"The AFP works closely with the industry to ensure our airports are a safe environment for travellers and staff," he said.
"The AFP has zero tolerance for antisocial, violent or dangerous behaviour and will prosecute anyone if they pose a threat to other people's safety."
The man has been charged with:
- One count of assault occasioning bodily harm, contrary to section 317(1) of the Criminal Code Act Compilation Act 1913 (WA). The maximum penalty for the offence is five years' imprisonment;
- Two counts of common assault, contrary to section 313(1)(b) of the Criminal Code Act Compilation Act 1913 (WA). The maximum penalty for the offence is 18 months' imprisonment;
- Two counts of possession of a prohibited drug (steroids), contrary to section 6(2) of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1981 (WA).
If you require a police presence at an airport, or wish to report an incident or provide information, please call AFP's Airport Watch on 131 AFP (131 237).
