Key Details
Australia's Attorney General, Mark Dreyfus, confirmed on Monday that Daniel Duggan, a former US Marine and naturalized Australian citizen, will be extradited to the United States. Duggan faces charges of illegally training Chinese military pilots, violating a US arms embargo.
The decision follows a May 2023 court ruling approving Duggan's extradition and comes after a public campaign by his supporters advocating for his release.
Background
Duggan was arrested in New South Wales in October 2022 on a US request tied to a 2017 grand jury indictment. He is accused of working with others, including the South African-based Test Flying Academy, to export defense services to China in violation of US law.
The indictment references a 2008 email from the US State Department warning Duggan to register with authorities before training a foreign military. Despite this, prosecutors allege Duggan continued his activities. If convicted, Duggan could face up to 65 years in prison.
Duggan’s Defense
Duggan denies the charges, stating that his work involved training civilian pilots amid China's aviation industry growth. His legal team argues that US officials were aware of his actions and that his arrest is politically motivated, citing rising US-China tensions.
An 89-page submission from his lawyers described Duggan as a "political pawn" in an environment of heightened geopolitical strain. His wife, Saffrine Duggan, called the decision "callous and inhumane" and expressed dismay at the Australian government's lack of support for their family.
Political Context
Duggan's arrest coincides with broader Western measures against ex-military personnel working with foreign nations, particularly China. Since the formation of the AUKUS pact between the US, the UK, and Australia in 2021, stricter laws have been enacted to regulate the post-service activities of military veterans.
Duggan moved to China in 2013, renounced his US citizenship in 2016, and worked there for six years before returning to Australia. His legal team alleges that the extradition request is rooted in "US Sinophobia" rather than a fair application of the law.
Next Steps
Duggan remains in custody while his family considers legal options to challenge the extradition decision.
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