Two Iranian asylum seekers who have made formal complaints of sexual harassment against Serco guards on Christmas Island have been told that they are to be returned to the detention centre where the alleged incidents took place.
The two sisters made formal complaints to the Territory and Federal Police after they were transferred from Christmas Island to Wickham Point for medical attention in late May this year. The complaints are still under investigation.
In mid-June, one of the sisters attempted suicide when they were then told they were to be moved back to Christmas Island.
“We are calling on the Minister to prevent these two asylum seekers being moved to Christmas Island,” said Ian Rintoul, spokesperson for the Refugee Action Coalition.
“The sisters are already very vulnerable. Given the revelations of the conditions on Christmas Island in the current Human Rights inquiry and the on-going investigation of the sexual harassment complaints, to send them back to Christmas Island is worse than irresponsible.
“Serco and the Immigration department should be acting on the serious complaints, not threatening those who have made the complaints.
“Moving them to Christmas Island risks exposing them to more danger of harassment or worse. That fear is causing them extreme anxiety.
“The proposal to move them seems to indicate the Immigration department’s complete lack of concern for the safety and the welfare of women in their care.”
For more information contact Ian Rintoul mob 0417 275 713
