SYDNEY — A 30-year-old Lakemba man has been charged by federal authorities after allegedly tricking his wife into leaving Australia, marooning her overseas, and secretly cancelling her spousal visa in a calculated case of exit trafficking.
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) executed a search warrant at a Lakemba residence on Wednesday, August 5, seizing mobile phones and a laptop before formally charging the man.
Investigators allege the man orchestrated a multi-month scheme to lure his 23-year-old wife to Myanmar before abandoning her and attempting to revoke her right to return to Australia.
A Calculated Scheme: The Chronology of Allegations
According to police, the planning began nearly two years ago:
- November 2024: The man allegedly purchased a one-way ticket to Myanmar for his wife and a return ticket for himself. Shortly after, he secretly submitted a request to withdraw her spousal visa application, falsely claiming the couple had separated. He also facilitated the renewal of her Myanmar passport.
- December 9, 2025: The couple departed Australia for Myanmar under the pretence of visiting family relatives.
- January 14, 2026: The husband allegedly altered his travel itineraries and abandoned his wife in Myanmar. He travelled alone through Singapore and Japan before making his way back to Australia on March 24, 2026.
The victim alerted authorities in March 2026, triggering a months-long AFP investigation that culminated in this week’s raid and arrest.
Police Response & Legal Action
The 30-year-old has been charged under section 271.2(1A) of the Criminal Code (Cth) with facilitating the exit of another person from Australia by using threat, deception, or coercion.
The offence carries a maximum penalty of 12 years’ imprisonment.
He was granted police bail and is scheduled to face the Downing Centre Local Court on August 28, 2026.
The victim has since been safely repatriated to Australia. She is currently receiving specialised assistance through the Support for Trafficked People Program, delivered nationally by the Australian Red Cross in partnership with the AFP.
An Insidious Offence”: AFP Issues Public Warning
AFP Detective Superintendent Luke Needham emphasised that exit trafficking remains a serious, underreported crime within modern Australian communities.
“No one has the right to force or deceive anyone to leave Australia, or to prevent them from returning, against their will. This type of behaviour is a criminal offence and carries a potential 12-year jail sentence,” Det-Supt Needham said.
“The sad reality is this crime does occur in modern Australia, which is why educating the public on the indicators is crucial.”
Red Flag Indicators of Exit Trafficking
Authorities urge the public, family members, and transport staff to remain vigilant for warning signs that someone may be a victim of exit trafficking:
- Travelling without personal possession of their own passport or travel documents
- Holding a one-way ticket while companion holds a return ticket
- Lacking a personal mobile phone, funds, or direct access to communication
- An inability to provide their own contact details or itinerary information on bookings
🆘 Need Help or Have Information?
Human trafficking and modern slavery are serious crimes. If you suspect someone is at risk or experiencing exploitation:
- Emergency Safety Concerns: Call 000 immediately.
- Report to Federal Police: Call 131 AFP (131 237) or submit a confidential report online at afp.gov.au.
- Confidential Victim Advice & Support: Contact the Australian Red Cross Support for Trafficked People Program at 1800 113 015 or via their official website.