19 May 2008
GOVERNMENT WELCOMES RETURN OF MOKBEL
The Commonwealth Government has welcomed the return of fugitive Tony Mokbel, following his successful extradition from Greece, the Minister for Home Affairs Bob Debus said today.
“Mokbel was returned to Australia this afternoon to serve time for the crime he has previously been convicted of, as well as to face new charges.
“I congratulate both the AFP and the Victorian Police for their diligence and dedication in bringing this man to justice.
“I would also like to thank both the Greek authorities and my counterpart in the Greek Government, Minister Hadjigakis, for their assistance with this matter.
“Australia has a strong and long-standing cooperative relationship with Greece in regard to criminal matters and their support has been invaluable.”
Tony Mokbel will now serve a 12 year prison sentence after being convicted of knowingly importing a trafficable quantity of cocaine.
He will also face prosecution for a further 18 Commonwealth and Victorian offences. “This extradition demonstrates how important international legal cooperation is in ensuring criminals can’t evade justice simply by crossing borders,” Mr Debus said.
“The extradition was also the result of excellent work between state and federal police.
“I understand the high level of interest in the matter but for the protection of the officers involved in Mokbel’s return, no comment can be made about the logistics of the flight from Greece.”
Media Contact: Samantha Wills 0448 721 372