Sydney: Australia opened a fresh probe into
an alleged navy sex betting ring today after an initial
investigation was scrapped because of bias.
Opening submissions told of a "predatory culture" on HMAS
Success, where sailors are accused of maintaining a list,
known as The Ledger -- that put dollar values on sexual
conquests with female colleagues.
Douglas Campbell, senior counsel for the Australian
Defence Force, said interviews with crew members had shown
male sailors sought out susceptible female recruits for sex.
Women were coerced into sex using drugs and alcohol
during shore leave, he said, adding that they were also
threatened to stop them speaking out.
The new inquiry, led by retired judge Roger Gyles, was
set up after the initial probe did not hand down any findings
and was judged biased by legal experts.
The Channel Seven television station has reported that
female officers and lesbians attracted higher values and
premiums were paid for sex in unusual locations such as on top
of a pool table.
The report was described as "disturbing" by Prime
Minister Kevin Rudd when it aired in July. It said the alleged
betting ring was discovered while HMAS Success was visiting
Singapore last May.
PTI
