The Australian Federal Police (AFP) responded to an average of 54 callouts per day at airports across the country over the Easter holidays, as the nation’s travel hubs experienced a surge in passengers. From April 18-21, AFP officers attended a total of 217 incidents at nine major airports, including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide.
The callouts included a range of disturbances, from prohibited items to incidents of aggressive behavior, with one notable case involving an assault on airline crew and two police officers. The AFP’s active presence was part of a broader effort to maintain order and ensure the safety of both travelers and airport staff.
AFP Prepares for Holiday Rush
Acting Superintendent Angy Polic of the AFP acknowledged the challenges posed by the significant increase in passenger numbers during the holiday period. “Our officers were prepared for the influx of travelers and the potential for disruptive behavior,” she said. “We handled matters ranging from the possession of prohibited items to aggressive passengers failing to comply with safety regulations.”
Polic emphasized the AFP’s commitment to safeguarding the public, asserting that the force would not tolerate disruptive or violent conduct. “We will not hesitate to act when behaviour crosses the line,” she warned. “If you engage in abusive or violent actions, you will face serious consequences, including criminal charges, fines, travel bans, or even imprisonment.”
Specific Incidents Over the Holiday Period
Among the incidents that required AFP intervention was the case of a 27-year-old man at Adelaide Airport on April 17. He was charged with multiple offenses, including threatening to kill two security guards and assaulting one, after a disturbance in the security screening area. He will appear in Adelaide Magistrate’s Court on June 10.
Another high-profile incident occurred on April 21, when a 44-year-old woman from Western Australia was charged for assaulting both federal officers and airline crew members. The woman had been disruptive during a flight from New Zealand to Australia and physically assaulted AFP officers at Sydney Airport when they attempted to remove her from the aircraft. She appeared in Downing Centre Local Court on April 22 and is set to return to court in June.
AFP’s Warning to Travelers
The AFP reiterated that passengers should expect swift action if they engage in disruptive or violent behavior. “Your holiday will be canceled, and your next destination may very well be a police station or courtroom,” said Acting Superintendent Polic.
For those who need to report incidents or provide information, the AFP’s Airport Watch service can be reached at 131 AFP (131 237).
As the holiday travel season continues, the AFP remains vigilant in ensuring a safe and smooth experience for all passengers.
