Media Statement

The Australian Federal Police (AFP) is aware that Dr Haneef’s lawyers today released the transcript of his second interview with police on 13 and 14 July 2007.

Dr Haneef’s lawyers have been in possession of audio discs of the interview since 17 July and the AFP has complied with all of its legislative obligations under the Crimes Act 1914.

In cases where a transcript of an interview is produced by the AFP, it is provided to defence lawyers for the purpose of legal representation in court proceedings.

The continuing attempts by Dr Haneef’s defence team to use the media to run their case is both unprofessional and inappropriate and the AFP has raised this aspect with the Queensland Legal Services Commission.

The release of this confidential information has generated a great deal of misinformed and speculative reporting which has forced the AFP to take extraordinary steps to correct the public record.

AFP Professional Standards has investigated suspected leaks to the media and is satisfied that there has been no unlawful disclosure of information by AFP members. The matters identified as possible inappropriate conduct by officials of other agencies will be referred to the appropriate authorities.

The AFP has acted appropriately throughout the investigation.