Irish family seeks father's release from Iraqi detention
rte.ie —
Robert Pether, an Australian man living in Ireland, has been detained in Iraq for nearly four years on fraud charges related to a bank project. His family claims he is a hostage in a contract dispute, with the UN labeling his detention arbitrary. Pether and his colleague were convicted in 2021 and fined $12 million. Despite multiple appeals, they remain imprisoned. Recent developments include new money laundering charges against Pether, which his family argues are unjust. The Irish and Australian governments are working to secure Pether's release, but his health is reportedly declining. He is due back in court soon, facing potential additional prison time if convicted on the new charges.