Two Victorian ISIS Brides women who travelled to Syria over a decade ago are facing the full weight of Australian law today, charged with harrowing Crimes Against Humanity offences involving the enslavement of a woman.
The women, aged 53 and 31, were intercepted by the Victoria Joint Counter Terrorism Team (JCTT) at Melbourne International Airport yesterday immediately upon their return to Australia. They are expected to appear in the Melbourne Magistrates Court today, 8 May 2026.
The Allegations: US$10,000 for a Human Life
Federal authorities will allege a chilling narrative of domestic enslavement during the height of the Syrian conflict.
The 53-Year-Old Woman
It is alleged she travelled to Syria in 2014 with her husband and children. Police claim she was complicit in the purchase of a female slave for US$10,000 and knowingly kept the victim within her household. Charges include:
- Crimes Against Humanity – Enslavement
- Possession, Use, and Purchase of a slave
The 31-Year-Old Woman
Also alleged to have travelled to Syria in 2014, she is charged with keeping a female slave in the home. Charges include:
- Crimes Against Humanity – Enslavement
- Use of a slave
Note: Each of these offences carries a maximum penalty of 25 years’ imprisonment.
From Al Roj to the Dock
The arrests mark a significant milestone in Operation Kurrajong, a long-term investigative effort targeting Australians who joined ISIS conflict zones. The women were previously detained by Kurdish forces in March 2019 and spent years in the Al Roj Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp before their arrival in Melbourne yesterday.
AFP Assistant Commissioner Stephen Nutt emphasised that the investigation remains active and methodical.
“Australian JCTTs methodically investigated all Australians who travelled to declared conflict areas and will ensure those who are alleged to have committed a criminal offence are put before the courts,” Assistant Commissioner Nutt said.
Community Safety & Support
Victoria Police Assistant Commissioner Martin O’Brien reassured the public that community safety remains the priority, stating that anyone returning from conflict areas who has committed serious crimes “will be held to account.”
The Victoria JCTT—a powerhouse unit comprising the AFP, Victoria Police, and ASIO—continues to monitor the situation.
Resources
If this story has caused distress, or if you have information regarding suspicious activity, please use the following contacts:
- National Security Hotline: 1800 123 400
- Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000
- Lifeline (Support): 13 11 14