16 February 2013

Drugs criminal clears port security hurdle

THE Federal Government's promise to tighten security around ports and airports has struck a hurdle, with a convicted drug trafficker being cleared to work in sensitive secure zones on the nation's waterfront.

Damien Ruffin was initially banned from the docks after being declined a Maritime Security Identification Card, a background check that is meant to keep criminals out of maritime security zones.

Ruffin served 15 months in jail for trafficking a commercial quantity of cannabis in 2007 and told investigators he had undertaken the lucrative scheme to pay for an expensive divorce to his first wife.

The 49-year-old was also convicted of possessing an unregistered firearm.

Despite his record, the Administrative Appeals Tribunal has reversed the ban, allowing him to skipper boats that use secure marine zones.

The AAT heard Ruffin had been a model prisoner and since his release had worked hard to support his new wife and children.

"Mr Ruffin stated he has gone back to school, studied at a TAFE and has acquired a maritime Masters and Engineers ticket. Mr Ruffin now wants to work with friends in the maritime industry," said AAT's Conrad Ermert.

AAT reversed the ban despite hearing evidence that he could have settled his financial problems by selling his properties.

"I take into account Mr Ruffin's obvious efforts to improve his life and his evidence of a determination to support his wife and family," Mr Ermert ruled.

"Accordingly, I consider that on the balance of probabilities Mr Ruffin is not likely to be any more of a risk to maritime security than any other person, if I accede to his request for the issue of an MSIC."

AAT granted the MSIC and ordered Ruffin be subjected to drug testing and be of good behaviour for two years.

Ruffin now wants to invest in Oz Dive, a friend's company.

A spokesman for the Minister of Infrastructure and Transport Anthony Albanese said the government was considering its legal options after being alerted to the decision yesterday.

news.com.au 15 Feb 2013
 

The Melbourne docks are controlled by the criminal underworld. 

A prominent criminal name runs many registered businesses, and is literally untouchable.

It is only through government corruption in the police and taxation department, that these people are allowed to operate their drug syndicates. 

Firearms also will be always in the possession of criminals.

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