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AFP refusing to comment on departure of senior officer


AFP refusing to comment on departure of senior officer

The Australian Federal Police (AFP) is refusing to comment on the sudden resignation of one of its most senior figures, who was last year formally decorated for “distinguished service” and until recently was the ACT’s deputy chief police officer.

In an internal AFP message published earlier this month, and seen by the ABC, staff were informed Assistant Commissioner Doug Boudry was leaving after 26 years in the force. 

“He was promoted to Assistant Commissioner in June 2022 and commenced as Deputy Chief Police Officer in February 2023,” the memo titled “SES Departures” and dated February 7 stated.

According to the AFP, the long-serving officer played an “influential” role in Operation Ironside, the country’s largest-ever crime sting, which busted organised syndicates trafficking illicit drugs and weapons via an encrypted communications app. 

Before being sworn in as the ACT’s deputy chief police officer, Mr Boudry served as chief of staff to AFP Commissioner Reece Kershaw.

ABC News put a series of questions to the AFP, seeking information about the departure.

“The AFP does not comment on members who resign from the AFP to take on other opportunities,” an AFP spokesperson said in writing.

When the ABC sought clarity about why the AFP was refusing to answer questions that related to senior public officials, the AFP replied: “The AFP has no further comment.”

A spokesperson for ACT Police Minister Marisa Paterson also declined to comment. 

Last year, the AFP praised Mr Boudry’s “influential” leadership in the three-year Operation Ironside investigation after he received the Australian Policing Medal.

Governor-General Sam Mostyn presented him with the award at a ceremony in Canberra. 

The AFP will face questions at Senate estimates on Tuesday. 

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