29 January 2024, 4:40pm
Media Release
WA immigration detention centre detainee charged over alleged assault
Editor’s note: Footage of the arrest available via Hightail.
The AFP has charged a detainee at the Yongah Hill Immigration Detention Centre in Western Australia for allegedly assaulting a Serco detention security officer.
The man, 41, from Sierra Leone, allegedly punched the female officer in the face on 21 January, 2024, after approaching her near a laundry in the facility.
Police will allege in court the blow caused the officer to fall to the ground and hit her head on the concrete. She lost consciousness during the incident.
It’s alleged the man tried to strike the officer a second time but missed her as she fell, and he then walked away.
The officer sustained severe bruising and was treated in hospital. She has since been released.
The man has been charged with one count of causing harm to a Commonwealth Public Official, contrary to section 147.1(1)(g) of the Criminal Code Act 1995 (Cth). The maximum penalty for this offence is 10 years’ imprisonment.
He first appeared in court on 24 January, 2024, and was remanded in custody to reappear on 9 February.
Serco Australia Pty Ltd. is contracted by the Department of Home Affairs to provide security, garrison, detainee welfare services, facilities management and transport and escort services in immigration detention facilities.
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