A 34-year-old woman is now facing charges. Video / Australian Federal Police. Video / Australian Federal Police
A Jetstar passenger is facing charges after allegedly stabbing Australian police officers with a pen.
On Monday, a 34-year-old woman allegedly became disruptive on a Jetstar flight from Sydney to Perth after failing to follow the cabin crew’s instructions.
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) were called tomeet with the woman upon landing at Perth Airport.
According to the police, as the officers approached her the woman tried to walk away from them.
Police allege the woman pulled away from the officers when they tried to restrain her and struck an officer’s forearm with a pen.
An officer was further treated at hospital for injuries sustained in the alleged assault. Photo / Australian Federal Police
Another officer was allegedly struck in the face and neck with the pen after attempting to restrain her.
An ambulance arrived at the scene to treat the injured officers, one of whom was sent to hospital for additional treatment.
“He has since been released from hospital but it will take some time off work to recover as one of the wounds is just below his right eye – very, very close to his eye,” said Detective Acting Superintendent Peter Brindal.
Video released by AFP of the incident showed the woman and the two officers in an intense altercation on the tarmac.
The woman was charged with two counts of causing harm to a public official, one count of obstructing a public official and one count of failing to comply with safety instructions given by cabin crew.
She appeared at the Perth Magistrates Court on Tuesday.
AFP Acting Commander Murray Taylor said any passenger who broke the law by being violent or disruptive was dealt with swiftly and without prejudice.
“The AFP and its partners have zero tolerance for antisocial, violent or dangerous behaviour towards passengers, staff or law enforcement at our airports, and we will take action against those who offend,” said Taylor.
A Jetstar spokesperson said passengers are required to follow the crew’s instructions and comply with safety procedures.
“We will never tolerate disruptive behaviour onboard our aircraft or within the terminal and appreciate the ongoing assistance and support of the AFP,” the Jetstar spokesperson said.
