Wed Sep 18 03:52:51 UTC 2024: ## Australian Man Charged with Creating Global Crime App “Ghost”
**SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA** – In a groundbreaking case, Australian police have charged a 32-year-old man with creating and managing the encrypted messaging app “Ghost,” which was allegedly used by international organized crime networks. The man was arrested in western Sydney on Wednesday, September 18, and faces five charges related to running the platform.
Police allege Ghost was used by gangs and syndicates in the Middle East, Australia, and South Korea to facilitate drug trafficking and contract killings. “Taking down dedicated encrypted communication devices takes significant skill,” stated Australian Federal Police Deputy Commissioner Ian McCartney. “But the holy grail is always penetrating criminal platforms to access evidence.”
This is the first time an Australian resident has been accused of creating and running a global criminal platform. The arrest follows a two-day raid across four Australian states and territories, with related searches also taking place in Ireland, Italy, Sweden, and Canada.
Up to 50 alleged Australian users of Ghost are also facing charges, potentially including lengthy prison sentences. Police anticipate more arrests in Australia and overseas in the coming days.
Authorities claim that cracking Ghost’s encryption has prevented the death or serious injury of 50 individuals in Australia. This case highlights the ongoing battle against sophisticated criminal organizations using encrypted communication to operate illicit activities.
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