British man arrested after 'trying to flee Australia on a jet ski, armed with crossbow'

Police believe 57-year-old, wanted over alleged drug-related offences, was trying to reach Papua New Guinea

A 57-year-old British man wanted by police was arrested after allegedly trying to flee Australia on a jet ski. (Australian Border Force)

A British fugitive was snared by police after allegedly trying to flee Australia on a jet ski.

Police said the 57-year-old was seen launching the jet ski from Pundsand Bay in Cape York, at the most northern point of Queensland, while “possibly armed with a crossbow and carrying additional fuel and supplies”.

A warrant was out for the arrest of the man, who was wanted for alleged drug-related offences in Western Australia.

Border force officers believe he intended to travel to Papua New Guinea.

The man was arrested on mudflats on the eastern side of Saibai Island, in the Torres Strait, after travelling about 90 miles.

He was taken to Thursday Island where he was held by police until his extradition to Western Australia.

Commander Jo Crooks, of the Australian Border Force northern command, said the man’s arrest was the result of a joint operation between border force, Australian Federal Police (AFP), and Queensland Police.

“We have the ability to detect a range of border threats, including suspicious movements through the region,” said Commander Crooks.

“Anyone who thinks they can either enter or leave Australia through the region without detection should think again.”

A spokesperson for AFP added: “This arrest sends a strong message to would-be fugitives: our reach across Australia is second to none and we will use all our contacts and relationships to find you and bring you before a court.”