FED; Alleged people smuggler arrested in Bangkok

AAP General News (Australia)
04-08-2004
FED; Alleged people smuggler arrested in Bangkok

A man who allegedly smuggled a boat-load of people to Ashmore Reef in 2001 has been
arrested in Thailand and will be extradited to Australia.

Justice and Customs Minister CHRIS ELLISON says Thai police arrested MASOUD CHAUDRY
in Bangkok on Tuesday at the request of Australian authorities.

The 35-year-old Pakistani national is alleged to have organised the passage of a boat
from Indonesia to Christmas Island between November 2000 and April 2001.

He's wanted in Australia to face prosecution for people smuggling offences.

Senator ELLISON says CHAUDRY is the subject of an Australian arrest warrant issued
in relation to two offences under the Migration Act -- each punishable by a maximum term
of ten years jail.

Australian authorities are applying for CHAUDRY'S extradition from Bangkok.

AAP RTV hn/mj/as/rt

KEYWORD: CHAUDRY (PERTH)

2004 AAP Information Services Pty Limited (AAP) or its Licensors.