Police in Western Australia seized nearly $18 million in cash and items in 2024, with over $5 million already being used for community safety initiatives. The Australian Federal Police’s Western Command led investigations into cybercrime, child exploitation, and drug trafficking, resulting in the arrest of 162 individuals from January to December. One individual, Michael Clapsis, faces nine alleged cyber-crime charges as part of these investigations. A taskforce was created to analyze residents who cannot legally justify their assets to target possible proceeds of crime.
Over $5.3 million was confiscated in 2024 and allocated to the Attorney General’s community safety initiatives, with a further $12.3 million still under investigation to determine if it will be forfeited to the state. In addition to investigating proceeds of crime, the AFP’s focus includes protecting children from exploitation and abuse. A significant case involved a Perth man receiving a 17-year sentence for sextortion involving 286 victims, including 180 children. Another man was charged for blackmailing girls into performing sex acts on camera after befriending them as a teenage social media celebrity, with 112 victims identified, including a 13-year-old in the United States.
In May, the AFP’s cybercrime team charged a Perth man with creating an ‘evil twin’ WIFI network on a plane to gather personal information from connected users, marking the first time such a charge had been made in Perth. These cases highlight the ongoing efforts to combat cybercrime and protect individuals, with a specific focus on safeguarding children from online exploitation. The success of these investigations demonstrates the dedication of law enforcement agencies in identifying and prosecuting those involved in criminal activities, particularly those that harm vulnerable populations.
The seizure of millions of dollars in illicit assets reflects the commitment of law enforcement to disrupting criminal activities and preventing individuals from profiting from illegal conduct. The funds seized from criminal enterprises are being reinvested into community safety initiatives, benefiting the public and potentially deterring future criminal behavior. By targeting the proceeds of crime and addressing issues such as cybercrime and child exploitation, law enforcement agencies aim to protect individuals from harm and uphold the rule of law. The continued efforts to investigate and prosecute those involved in illegal activities serve to maintain a safe and secure environment for all members of society.
The arrests made and assets seized in 2024 underscore the significant impact that law enforcement agencies can have in combating various forms of criminal activity. By targeting key individuals involved in cybercrime, child exploitation, and drug trafficking, authorities are able to disrupt criminal networks and prevent further harm to victims. The success of these investigations demonstrates the effectiveness of collaboration between law enforcement agencies and the community, as well as the importance of ongoing efforts to address emerging threats and protect vulnerable populations. Through continued vigilance and proactive measures, law enforcement agencies in Western Australia are working to safeguard communities and uphold the principles of justice and public safety.
The cases highlighted in 2024 illustrate the diverse range of criminal activities that law enforcement agencies in Western Australia are addressing, from cybercrime to child exploitation. By prioritizing the protection of children and the prosecution of individuals involved in illegal activities, the AFP and other agencies are sending a clear message that criminal behavior will not be tolerated. The successful prosecution of individuals involved in cybercrime and exploitation cases demonstrates the dedication of law enforcement agencies to holding offenders accountable for their actions and seeking justice for victims. Through ongoing investigations and community partnerships, law enforcement agencies continue to work towards creating a safer and more secure environment for all residents of Western Australia.
