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False Mayday Calls

Tasmania Police is investigating the transmission of false 'Mayday' calls for marine emergencies.

At approximately 9.20am on Saturday 7 February 2009 an emergency 'Mayday' call was transmitted in southern Tasmania on marine VHF distress and calling channel, channel 16. 

The male caller claimed to be on a vessel which was sinking off south east Tasmania.  The caller identified himself as being on the vessel 'Turbo One'. The caller's voice was recognised as being responsible for a previous false call in January 2008.

On that occasion 2 police vessels and several recreational and commercial vessels spent several hours searching for a distressed vessel.

Police are seeking public assistance to identify the caller  - Audio of false mayday call

Any person who may know the identity of the caller is asked to contact Marine and Rescue Services on (03) 6230 2475 (during business hours) or Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000.

False emergency calls have the potential to endanger the lives of rescuers, including members of the public who frequently respond to assist police in searching an area.  They also have the potential to misdirect vital resources in the event of real emergencies.

Transmitting a false radio message of danger is a Commonwealth offence which carries a penalty of up to 5 years imprisonment or a fine of $550,000.

(24 Feb 2009)