Highlights
- Gurpreet Singh was caught with child exploitation videos on his phone.
- He was sentenced for 253 days.
- He is currently in detention and being held as an unlawful citizen.
Melbourne Magistrates’ Court sentenced Gurpreet Singh to time served of 253 days after he pleaded guilty to one charge of Importing Tier 2 Prohibited Goods (Child Abuse Material) contrary to Section 233BAB(5) of the Customs Act 1901.
30-year-old Mr Singh was arrested at Melbourne Airport in August 2019 for attempting to import child abuse material into Australia.
Australian Border Force (ABF) officers selected Mr Singh for a baggage examination after he arrived on a flight from Brunei on August 25, 2019.
“As part of the baggage examination, ABF officers inspected the man’s mobile phone. During the inspection of his phone, several child exploitation videos were discovered,” the ABF said in a release.
ABF Regional Commander for Victoria and Tasmania, Craig Palmer said the ABF is committed to detecting and seizing this type of material.
“The ABF will not tolerate attempts to import objectionable and offensive materials. Our very strong message to anyone thinking about doing so is that you will be caught, arrested and charged.” Regional Commander Craig Palmer said.
Mr Singh’s tourist visa has been cancelled and he is currently being held in immigration detention as an unlawful non-citizen.
He has also been placed on the sex offenders register for eight years.
People in Australia must stay at least 1.5 metres away from others. Check your state’s restrictions on gathering limits.
Testing for coronavirus is now widely available across Australia. If you are experiencing cold or flu symptoms, arrange a test by calling your doctor or contact the Coronavirus Health Information Hotline on 1800 020 080.
The federal government's coronavirus tracing app COVIDSafe is available for download from your phone's app store.
SBS is committed to informing Australia’s diverse communities about the latest COVID-19 developments. News and information is available in 63 languages at sbs.com.au/coronavirus
