Australian Border Force (ABF) investigators have arrested a 43-year-old Padstow (NSW) man after parts of 11 childlike sex dolls were detected in air cargo shipments.
Investigations began after ABF officers detected and seized the parts in three separate consignments at air cargo facilities in Sydney on 19 September and 16 October 2020. Yesterday (Tuesday 20 October) ABF, with the assistance of NSW Police Force detectives from Bankstown Police Area Command, executed search warrants at an address in Padstow.
During the warrants officers located and seized an electronic device allegedly containing child abuse images, and a further childlike sex doll. A number of additional electronic devices were seized pending full forensic examination.
Investigators also located a number of cannabis plants, a quantity of marijuana and publications containing child abuse material.
The man was arrested and charged with three counts of Import Tier 2 good, contrary to section 233BAB(5) of the Customs Act 1901.
Bankstown detectives also charged the man with cultivate prohibited plants and possess prohibited drug.
The man was refused bail to appear at Bankstown Local Court today (Wednesday 21 October 2020).
Importing childlike sex dolls is an offence under the Customs Act. The maximum penalty if convicted is up to 10 years’ imprisonment and/or fines of up to $525,000. Under the Criminal Code the possession of a childlike sex doll attracts a maximum penalty of 15 years’ imprisonment.
ABF Superintendent Regional Investigations NSW Garry Low said the ABF has a zero-tolerance approach to child abuse material and will use all available powers to protect the community from people associated with these abhorrent activities.
“Child sexual abuse is a global issue, and the ABF actively engages with its law enforcement partners both domestically and internationally, to further investigate and prevent harm to children in Australia and overseas,” Superintendent Low said.
The ABF seize all childlike sex dolls detected at the border. Where ABF officers find additional evidence of child abuse material, it is referred to the appropriate federal and state authorities for investigation.
Bankstown Police Area Command Crime Manager, Detective Chief Inspector Darren Beech said the arrest was the result of great work between the two agencies.
“We do not condone any form of child exploitation and we will continue to work with other agencies in the detection and prosecution of persons attempting to purchase these items,” Det C/Insp Beech said.
People with information about those who may be importing childlike sex dolls or other child abuse material should contact Border Watch at www.Australia.gov.au/borderwatch . By reporting suspicious activities, you are helping to protect Australia’s border. Information can be provided anonymously.
