WA: Indon national in adult court for first time over Tampa case
An Indonesian national has appeared in an adult court for the first time to face people-smugglingcharges related to the 434 boatpeople taken aboard the Tampa as their fishing vessel sank.
AKSAL JUNUS had argued he was a juvenile and should not have to front an adult court.
But the Perth Children's Court last week deemed him to be aged over 18 at the timeof the alleged offence.
JUNUS is accused along with three other Indonesians - BASTIAN DISUN, 32, NORDAMES NORDIN,31, and ALDO BENJAMIN, 21.
He faced the Perth magistrates court today and nodded once to indicate he understood the charge.
The case has been adjourned until Friday so he can read the full allegations against him.
DISUN, NORDIN and BENJAMIN pleaded not guilty last week and will appear in the courton March 21, when a trial date is expected to be set.
Crown prosecutor MARTYN PLUMMER told the magistrates court today he understood JUNUSalso would be pleading not guilty.
The offence carries a maximum penalty of 20 years jail.
AAP RTV sd/jh
KEYWORD: TAMPA (PERTH)
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