Immigration Minister Andrew Giles has come under fire after revealing that the government is using taxpayer-funded drones to track 153 immigration detainees, including accused rapists and murderers. This revelation comes after the government was forced to release these detainees following a High Court decision.
In an interview with Sky News, Mr. Giles explained that the detainees are being monitored through strict visa conditions, daily monitoring, and discretionary measures. The government has invested a quarter of a billion dollars in supporting law enforcement agencies to enforce these conditions, including the use of drones to keep track of the detainees.
When asked why ankle bracelets are not being used, Mr. Giles cited legal restrictions that require consideration for each individual’s circumstances. He emphasized that spot checks, random house checks, and the use of drones are being utilized to monitor the detainees.
The controversy surrounding the release of these detainees has sparked a heated debate, with Liberal leader Peter Dutton defending his actions as minister. However, Prime Minister Scott Morrison accused Dutton of releasing criminals without any conditions, putting community safety at risk.
The Prime Minister highlighted the alarming statistics, including 102 sex offenders, 64 of whom are child sex offenders, 40 domestic violence offenders, and individuals convicted of murder or accessory to murder. The release of these detainees without proper monitoring has raised concerns about public safety.
In response to the backlash, Mr. Giles acknowledged that a protocol he put in place was not adhered to, leading to the current situation. He expressed his commitment to addressing the issue and implementing new protocols to ensure the safety of the community.
The unfolding scandal has put Mr. Giles under intense scrutiny, with many questioning why he still holds his position as Immigration Minister. As the government grapples with the fallout from the High Court decision, the focus remains on ensuring the accountability and safety of immigration detainees in Australia.