Two Japanese women have been denied entry into Australia after they admitted flying to the country to work in the sex industry.
The women, who were both holding visitor (subclass 601) visas arrived on Qantas flight from Japan on 28 June 2023.
Both women were interviewed by Australian Border Force (ABF) officers after they matched an Operation INGLENOOK profile.
During their interviews both women admitted to travelling to Australia to illegally work in the sex industry.
One of the women told ABF officers she was planning to work in a brothel.
Both women were refused immigration clearance and had their visas cancelled under the Migration Act 1958.
They were detained and transferred to the Melbourne Immigration Transit Accommodation (MITA), before being removed from Australia on 30 June 2023.
ABF launched the national multi-agency operation, Operation INGLENOOK, in November last year to identify individuals and crime groups involved in the exploitation of Australia's visa program, primarily as part of the sex industry.
It specifically targets the threat posed to Australia's border by those who seek to exploit visa programs and visa holders who are victims of trafficking or modern slavery practices within the sex industry.
To date, the operation has assessed 175 persons of interest and resulted in 22 instances of visa cancellation, identification of unlawful non-citizens and refused immigration clearance.
This is in addition to targeted disruption activities against 77 businesses.
This has disrupted key facilitators and given law enforcement a better understanding of the operating models, criminal networks and methodologies involved in foreign worker exploitation.
ABF A/g Commander Vaughan Baxter said Operation INGLENOOK will continue to target criminals who exploit foreign workers for profit.
“This was a deliberate attempt to enter the country under false pretences, and full credit to the ABF officers at Melbourne Airport who picked them up," A/g Commander Baxter said.
“Illegal foreign workers are extremely vulnerable and can be forced to work in the sex industry, experience severe underpayment and endure poor treatment – or all of the above.
“The unscrupulous criminals facilitating their entry into the country profit at their expense.
“Operation INGLENOOK will continue to focus on the sex work industry and target high priority persons of interest.
“The ABF and its partners are committed to targeting those who wish to profit from the exploitation of foreign workers, and ensuring swift action is taken."
Operation INGLENOOK, led by the ABF, is supported through a whole-of-government approach, with the primary partners being the Australian Federal Police (AFP), Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission (ACIC) and the Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (AUSTRAC).
People with information about the exploitation of foreign workers should contact Border Watch at borderwatch.gov.au.
By reporting suspicious activities, you help protect Australia's border. Information can be provided anonymously.
Media Enquiries:
ABF Media: (02) 6264 2211