CANBERRA, ACT, March 10 -- Australian Federal Police issued the following media release:
A West Australian man is expected to appear before Perth Magistrates Court today (10 March, 2026) charged over allegedly spitting in an officer's face and mouth outside Perth Airport.
AFP officers at Perth Airport responded to a request for assistance yesterday (9 March, 2026), following reports of two men arguing outside the terminal.
The man, 52, was approached by AFP officers, who requested he provide personal details and information about the alleged incident. The man allegedly walked away, failing to comply with police requests.
After being stopped by police, the man allegedly became aggressive towards AFP officers and was restrained. While the man was in police custody at the front of the Airport it is further alleged he spat in the face of an officer, with saliva hitting the face and entering the mouth of that officer.
The man was charged with one count of causing harm to a Commonwealth public official, contrary to section 147.1 of the Criminal Code (Cth). The maximum penalty for this offence is 13 years' imprisonment.
He was refused police bail to appear in court today.
AFP Acting Superintendent Peter Brindal said spitting at anyone was unacceptable and posed a serious health risk.
"No one should be subjected to this disgusting and degrading behaviour while performing their duties," a/Supt Brindal said.
"Our officers work every day to protect the community, and assaults of any kind will be met with swift action. The safety and wellbeing of our members is essential to them being able to do their jobs and ensure the safety of the travelling public."
Stop and think. A safe journey starts with you.
Every piece of information you provide could be the key to identifying and preventing a threat at our airports. That's why the AFP is asking you to adopt the; "See it. Hear it. Report it." approach.
Behaviours to report include:
* Taking photos of security cameras, screening, or perimeter fencing* Avoiding screening* Leaving bags unattended* Loitering* Concealing identity* Exhibiting erratic behaviour
If you see it or hear it, report it to Airport Watch at 131 237 (131 AFP).
You can make a difference!
Disclaimer: Curated by HT Syndication.
