David Hicks is released after six years of detention - most of which was at the US base in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. Photo / Reuters
David Hicks is released after six years of detention - most of which was at the US base in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. Photo / Reuters
KEY POINTS:
ADELAIDE - Confessed terrorism supporter David Hicks remains in hiding after being released from a maximum security Adelaide jail.
A control order on the 32-year-old commenced immediately on his release from the Yatala Prison yesterday.
Under the control order conditions, Hicks has to be fingerprinted by South AustralianPolice within 24 hours of his release.
Hicks also must abide by a midnight to 6am curfew and is banned from using telephones or internet servers not preapproved by Australian Federal Police.
Tomorrow, Hicks must attend an Adelaide police station - which the father of two must do three times a week, on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
Hicks yesterday pleaded for privacy as he tries to assimilate into society after being held in custody for six years, including five and a half years detained by the United States at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.
His lawyer, David McLeod, read a statement from Hicks after his release.
In his statement, Hicks pleaded for the media and public to allow him "breathing space to get on with my life".
"Right now I am looking forward to some quiet time with my wonderful Dad, my family and friends," he said.
"I ask that you respect my privacy as I will need time to readjust to society and to obtain medical care for the consequences of five and a half years at Guantanamo Bay.
"I have been told that my readjustment will be a slow process and should involve a gentle transition away from the media spotlight."
In March this year, Hicks pleaded guilty to providing material support for terrorism at a US military hearing at Guantanamo Bay.
He was sentenced to seven years jail, with all but nine months suspended, and was returned to Australia in May to serve the remainder of the custodial term, which expired yesterday.
