Detectives from Cairns Criminal Investigation Branch have charged a 47-year-old Karumba man with an additional 23 offences as part of Operation Victor Diabelli.
Operation Victor Diabelli was launched in 2023 following reports a man allegedly threatened and assaulted numerous deckhands on board his fishing vessels in the Gulf of Carpentaria, withholding food and water from crew members.
The Operation is also investigating allegations of intimidation of witnesses and attempts to pervert the course of justice offences.
On February 12, a 47-year-old Karumba man was charged with an additional seven counts of common assault, five counts of assault occasioning bodily harm, three counts of stealing, two counts each of torture and causing a person to enter or remain in servitude, and one count each of assault occasioning bodily harm while armed, dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, fraud, and attempt to procure others to commit criminal act (kidnapping).
He was remanded in custody and is due to appear at Cairns Magistrates Court on April 5.
Operation Victor Diabelli is an ongoing investigation, and detectives are continuing to appeal for victims and witnesses to contact police.
Anyone with information or who believes they or someone they know may have been impacted, are urged to come forward as investigations remain ongoing.
Cairns detectives have commended the bravery of those who have already spoken up and reported to police.
They would like to thank the Australian Maritime Safety Authority, Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, and the Australian Federal Police who continue to assist with investigations.
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