A former immigration detainee is one of three people who have been charged following a violent home robbery in Perth that left an elderly woman with severe facial bruising and her husband traumatised.
Majid Jamshidi Doukoshkan, 43, was released into the community last year following a contentious High Court ruling that deemed indefinite detention unlawful for individuals lacking a viable prospect of deportation from Australia in the foreseeable future.
Consequently, approximately 150 individuals, including seven convicted murderers, 37 sex offenders, and 72 violent offenders, were granted release.
According to police, Doukoshkan and his two accomplices posed as police officers carrying out a search warrant to gain entry into the home of 73-year-old Ninette Simons and her 76-year-old husband Philip.
Philip Simons recounted being forced to the ground and restrained while his wife endured a barrage of punches, resulting in her loss of consciousness. The attackers fled the scene with valuables totalling over $200,000.
In a statement given to The Australian, Prime Minister Albanese expressed sympathy regarding the alleged assault but declined to comment on any of the specifics of the incident or address mounting pressure to fast-track preventative detention orders.
Outrage and demands for accountability have surged, with political figures calling for resignations and explanations from government officials.
Liberal Senator James Paterson and Shadow Minister for Immigration Dan Tehan have condemned the incident as a failure of the current administration’s community protection measures. They assert that the responsible ministers must elucidate how such a grave security breach could occur under their watch.
The outcry extends beyond political circles, with Western Australia Liberal Leader Libby Mettam asserting that the state and federal Labor governments owe the affected family and the broader community an apology.
Questions loom over the efficacy of border control and community safety protocols, with NSW Liberal Senator Hollie Hughes denouncing the incident as a manifestation of governmental incompetence.
Amid escalating concerns, an Australia Border Force spokesperson reiterated the department’s commitment to prioritising public safety. While acknowledging the arrest of an individual holding a Bridging Visa R, they emphasised ongoing collaboration with law enforcement agencies.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the repercussions of this heinous act resonate deeply, prompting reflections on societal vulnerabilities and the imperative need for robust immigration security frameworks.
Although the victims of this crime warrant all the support possible, and the perpetrators held to account & imprisoned, it’s also important not to use this case as an excuse to criticise & persecute refugees. The Liberal Party Mps are notorious for Refugee “bashing” – as witnessed during the Morrison-Dutton regime. For those of us who associate with Refugees & Asylum seekers, we experience their hard work, commitment to their community & willingness to
help others. Three have offered to care for us in our old age. We don’t excuse any criminal act but need to stay informed through experience & not media grabs.