Illicit trade in native wildlife - witnesses Ando, Plant, Dawson, Green

t5/sa
CCC
got taken out of the special investigations unit. I wanted no
more to do with it. I was under extreme stress. I had got
threats from people and all I got from my office was, "You
need to deal with a counsellor", which was great, and I got a
lot of respect for that but I kept my distance from it. I had
my problems with Rick Dawson. We used to be great friends.
We didn't see eye to eye for a while and there was - - so I
just thought I'll keep clear from those situations. And
that's why I was put on general duties. I didn't need any
more stress in relation to any more of those sort of
investigations. That's why I pulled out of it.
MR HALL: Did you continue to maintain a relationship - - a
friendly relationship with Phil Green after this time?---Yes.
Did you meet with him following the execution of this search
warrant?---I - -
On or about the 21st of September?---We probably met a couple
of times.
Did you speak to him about being summonsed by this Commission
to give evidence at the private hearing?---No, because I got
told I'm not allowed to talk about the summons.
Where did you meet him?---I don't remember.
Yes.
(TO COMMISSIONER): Commissioner, at this time I would ask
that Mr Ando be stood down again. I wish to call some other
witnesses.
COMMISSIONER: If you'd please sit down - - stand down to the
back for the moment, Mr Ando.
WITNESS WITHDREW
MR HALL: Can I call Mr Malcolm Plant.
MALCOLM ROSS PLANT affirmed:
COMMISSIONER: Right. Thank you. Please sit down, Mr Plant.
EXAMINED BY MR HALL SC:
MR HALL: Now, Mr Plant, as we've heard in other evidence, you
are a Customs officer, I think?---That is correct. Yes.
And what's your position within Customs?---I'm an
investigation officer.
How long have you worked in that area in the Customs Service?-
--Approximately 10½ years.
23.11.04 A.G. ANDO XN 133
M.R. PLANT XN