A significant international police operation has resulted in the rescue of 92 children from harm in the Philippines and criminal charges against 18 alleged facilitators of child exploitation.
Year-Long Investigation Nets Alleged Offenders
The investigations, conducted over the past year by the Australian Federal Police (AFP) in partnership with the Philippines National Police, have led to 13 Australians being charged with alleged child abuse offences related to children in the Philippines. AFP Detective Sergeant Leesa Alexander condemned the actions of Australian criminals, stating they are helping to drive a "vile demand" for the abuse of innocent children.
"It is horrific how many Australian criminals are helping to drive this vile demand in the Philippines for offenders to abuse innocent children," Detective Sergeant Alexander said. "The AFP and international partners are committed to targeting these crimes, protecting children and putting offenders before court."
Why Australians Are Implicated
The AFP highlighted several factors that make the Philippines a target for Australian child sex offenders. These include:
- Similar time zones and direct flights from most Australian capital cities.
- A large English-speaking population.
- Excellent internet infrastructure, which enables perpetrators to easily communicate with facilitators online.
"Child abuse is abhorrent and can leave victims with a lifelong burden," authorities emphasised.
Recent Convictions Highlight Ongoing Fight
The announcement follows several recent successful prosecutions. In January, an investigation into a 69-year-old Northern Territory man led to six children being removed from harm in the Philippines. Earlier this month, the man pleaded guilty to multiple offences, including three counts of sexual intercourse with a child outside Australia, which carries a maximum penalty of 30 years' imprisonment.
In February, a 74-year-old West Australian man was sentenced to 23 years in jail for sexually abusing three children overseas and a further 12 children online between 2013 and 2022.
AFP Commander for Human Exploitation, Helen Schneider, issued a stern warning to offenders, stating that police will "continue our fight to keep children safe from those who try to exploit or abuse them."
"Every action online is traceable, and offenders who think they can outsmart law enforcement online should think again," Commander Schneider said. "We will continue to identify those exploiting children for their disgusting gratification. Let me be clear – just because the offending may not happen in Australia, we will still find you."
If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault, domestic or family violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au. In an emergency, call Triple-0 (000).
