NT car bogging leads to bust of alleged people smuggling scheme
Two men's alleged bid to smuggle illegal immigrants into Australia to work under a "debt bondage" scheme has come undone.
A 31-year-old from Mareeba and 30-year-old Newcastle man were arrested by Australian Federal Police yesterday.
The pair were discovered in the Northern Territory on January 24, when their vehicle became bogged in a remote water crossing, alerting local police.
The men claimed they were on a camping trip but were only travelling with one small bag between them, sparking suspicion from officers.
AFP officers arrested two men after a car bogging prompted an investigation. Supplied
An investigation was launched with the AFP alleging the pair were in the area to meet a potential vessel carrying illegal immigrants.
Police alleged the men would force the individuals to work for a year without income to repay the syndicate for the costs of the journey.
A search at both men's properties uncovered visa applications, mobile phones, computers and other documents.
The pair were charged with facilitating the entry of a group of five or more unlawful non-citizens into Australia.
The 30-year-old man was refused bail in Newcastle Local Court yesterday.
He will remain behind bars until his next appearance on September 3.
The 31-year-old will front court in Mareeba today.
Investigations are continuing.
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