'Captain Emad' subject to visa cancellation process
Friday, 15 June 2012
The Department of Immigration and Citizenship will be notifying Ali Al Abassi (also known to some as Captain Emad), upon his return to Australia, that it is considering the cancellation of his visa.
Investigations by federal authorities about the man indicate some apparent discrepancies in the information he provided to my department during his protection visa assessment process.
The formal notice to consider cancellation of his visa under section 109 of the Migration Act will be issued to him on his return to Australia. He would then have an opportunity to respond and provide reasons why the visa should not be cancelled, before a final decision is made.
Section 109 allows for visa cancellation where incorrect information has been provided in relation to a visa application.
Since allegations were raised more than a week ago, my department, in conjunction with other agencies, has conducted domestic and international investigations to seek information that might substantiate those claims.
The action to notify Ali Al Abassi of the intention to consider cancelling his visa is based on recent evidence gathered by the Immigration Department.
This is a legal process and the government will not prejudge its outcome.
This only relates to Ali Al Abassi's visa status. Any criminal investigations are a matter for the Australian Federal Police.
The cancellation powers are long-standing and allow action to be taken to protect the integrity of Australia's visa system.
These provisions have applied over the last two decades for holders of protection visas, permanent visas, temporary skilled migration visas, tourist visas and student visas.
URL: http://www.minister.immi.gov.au/media/cb/2012/cb187539.htm
Last update: Friday, 15 June 2012 at 15:13 AEST