asylum rioters threatened with jail

Last updated: March 19, 2011








Christmas Island asylum rioters threatened with jail and deportation

Lanai Vasek and Paige Taylor
From:The Australian
March 18, 20119:00PM


THE rioting detainees on Christmas Island have been warned that they face 20-year jail terms and having their asylum bids rejected, as the government tries to end six days of running battles with federal police that have left the detention centre in burnt-out ruins.

The rioting sparked a renewed political battle yesterday, with the Greens describing the border protection system as having reached breaking point and the Coalition demanding the government suspend the asylum applications of the rioters to send a message to other asylum-seekers.

The $400 million detention centre built by the Howard government was a scene of devastation yesterday, with tents and other accommodation burnt to the ground. A group of 280 non-violent detainees were being sheltered from others who had allegedly pressured them into joining the uprising.

The centre's contractor, Serco, was yesterday using barbecues to feed detainees because of damage to the kitchens where meals are prepared for almost 3000 asylum-seekers.

Immigration Minister Chris Bowen rejected opposition claims that Christmas Island was out of control, saying he was satisfied the AFP had taken stewardship of the detention facility. He appointed two former senior bureaucrats to review the performance of his department and Serco.

Describing the violence as inexcusable, Mr Bowen said he had the power to reject visa applications on the basis of conduct and character, in a clear warning to the ringleaders that their activities could cost them asylum even if they are not charged.

Mr Bowen told The Weekend Australian yesterday jail time for the rioters would not be ruled out.

"Their punishment will be the equivalent of anyone else who acted in that manner," a spokesman for Mr Bowen said. "It will be punishment that fits the crime."

Criminal law expert Guy Hall said the detainees could be charged with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, which has a maximum sentence of 20 years. Professor Hall said the harsher end of the sentence would most likely apply because of the severity of the situation.

"Because they allegedly threw these cocktails at AFP in execution of their duties, and because they are foreigners, it would worsen their charge," he said. "However, it's too early to speculate on this case but talking generally, that is what would happen."

About 280 detainees not involved in the riot were evacuated on buses about 11pm on Thursday amid allegations they were bullied and attacked by ringleaders who wanted them to join the fighting.

Those detainees, who were yesterday taking shelter at the island's recreation centre and at a compound next door, will be rewarded by the Immigration Department and flown to the mainland. The Weekend Australian has been told some of them protected guards during the chaos on Thursday night.



Additional reporting: Matthew Franklin


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