Sudhir Kumar Chahuan: Indian national charged with sexual, indecent assault on passenger during Perth flight

An Indian national is behind bars after he allegedly sexually assaulted a female passenger seated next to him on a flight from Singapore to Perth. Sudhir Kumar Chahuan, 54, appeared in Perth Magistrates Court on Tuesday charged with sexual intercourse without consent and three counts of indecent assault after disturbing allegations were raised with airline staff in the early hours of Monday. The Australian Federal Police allege Mr Chahuan sexually assaulted a female passenger on Scoot Airlines flight TR16, travelling from Singapore to Perth. “The female passenger sought help from airline staff and was subsequently moved to another seat,” an AFP spokesperson said. “Airline staff monitored the man for the remainder of the flight and alerted the AFP.” Officers boarded the plane when it landed at Perth Airport before escorting the man to an interview room. He has since been charged with the four offences. The sexual penetration without consent charge carries a maximum penalty of 12 years imprisonment. Mr Chahuan appeared in court on Tuesday, before he was remanded in custody ahead of a bail application listed for Friday. The WA Police sex assault squad and the AFP are both investigating the man’s alleged offending. “Every passenger has the right to feel safe when travelling, especially when confined in an aircraft close to other passengers,” AFP Acting Superintendent Peter Brindal said. “Anyone subjected to (alleged) unwanted contact is encouraged to alert the authorities, be it airline staff, the AFP or airport security, as soon as it is safely possible to do so. “No act of indecency on an aircraft or at an airport is appropriate, and any travellers who break the law will be dealt with swiftly.” Sexual Assault Resource Centre on 1800 199 888