British man arrested after 'trying to flee Australia on a jet ski, armed with crossbow'
Police believe 57-year-old, wanted over alleged drug-related offences, was trying to reach Papua New Guinea
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A British fugitive was snared by police after allegedly trying to flee Australia on a jet ski.
Police said the 57-year-old was seen launching the jet ski from Pundsand Bay in Cape York, at the most northern point of Queensland, while “possibly armed with a crossbow and carrying additional fuel and supplies”.
A warrant was out for the arrest of the man, who was wanted for alleged drug-related offences in Western Australia.
Border force officers believe he intended to travel to Papua New Guinea.
The man was arrested on mudflats on the eastern side of Saibai Island, in the Torres Strait, after travelling about 90 miles.
He was taken to Thursday Island where he was held by police until his extradition to Western Australia.
Commander Jo Crooks, of the Australian Border Force northern command, said the man’s arrest was the result of a joint operation between border force, Australian Federal Police (AFP), and Queensland Police.
“We have the ability to detect a range of border threats, including suspicious movements through the region,” said Commander Crooks.
“Anyone who thinks they can either enter or leave Australia through the region without detection should think again.”
A spokesperson for AFP added: “This arrest sends a strong message to would-be fugitives: our reach across Australia is second to none and we will use all our contacts and relationships to find you and bring you before a court.”