Thirteen Australians charged with child abuse as almost 100 children removed from harm in Philippines
A major police operation has seen 92 children removed from harm and 18 alleged child exploitation facilitators in the Philippines charged.
The investigations took place over the year between the Australian Federal Police (AFP) and the Philippines National Police, resulting in 13 Australians being charged.
“It is horrific how many Australian criminals are helping to drive this vile demand in the Philippines for offenders to abuse innocent children, and the AFP and international partners are committed to targeting these crimes, protecting children and putting offenders before court,” AFP Detective Sergeant Leesa Alexander said.
Sign up to The Nightly's newsletters.
Get the first look at the digital newspaper, curated daily stories and breaking headlines delivered to your inbox.
By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.“Child abuse is abhorrent and can leave victims with a lifelong burden.”
It is suspected Australians are major offenders in the Filipino child abuse trade due to similar time zones and direct flights from most Australian capital cities, AFP said.
The Philippines also has a large English-speaking population and excellent internet infrastructure, enabling perpetrators to easily communicate with facilitators online.
In January, six children were removed from harm in the Philippines after an investigation into a 69-year-old Northern Territory man.
Earlier this month he pleaded guilty to multiple offences, including three counts of sexual intercourse with a child outside Australia. The maximum penalty for this offence is 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 – also not in Australia – over the internet between 2013 and 2022.
A further 11 Australians were charged with alleged child abuses related to children in the Philippines.
AFP Commander Human Exploitation Helen Schneider said 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,” she 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.
