Source : Perth Now news
A recording device found in a cabin aboard a Royal Australian Navy ship in Cairns has sparked a military police investigation, with Defence confirming the vessel was kept alongside as inquiries began.
Defence revealed in a statement it became aware of the “video recording device” on October 11 after it was located on HMAS Leeuwin while the ship was docked in Cairns, Queensland.
The matter was referred to the Joint Military Police Unit and Defence is also working with civilian authorities.
Defence stated it took the incident “extremely seriously” and stressed it “does not tolerate unacceptable behaviour in any form”.
The department also confirmed the ship did not leave port after the discovery, stating it “remained alongside to enable the investigation and ensure immediate support was provided to members of the ship’s crew”.
“The welfare of individuals remains Defence’s priority, and support is ongoing,” the statement read.
Senator Jacqui Lambie brought the matter into the spotlight in the Senate on Wednesday, revealing she had received a letter from someone who claimed the device had been found in the “shower facilities”.
“Even more disturbing are claims that footage from these cameras may have been uploaded online before the cameras were discovered,” she said.
Concern has also been raised by people connected to those on-board. An ex-servicewoman told the ABC that one of her friends was on the ship and had been instructed not to speak to the media.
“These people have been forced to remain silent about it,” she told the ABC.
“If Defence was as good as they say it was, why would they need to silence anyone?”
Defence has not commented on whether any footage was recorded or uploaded online.
