Fake ID cards lead to Port court appearances for four co-accused

Four of seven co-accused have faced court after police allegedly found them in possession of, and printing, a large number of fake ID cards in Adelaide’s west.

One of seven co-accused in a “sophisticated” fake ID ring has been granted bail in the Port Adelaide Magistrates Court.

Four of the co-accused appeared in court on Tuesday via video-link.

All seven people will face court after police allegedly found them in possession of, and printing, a large number of fake ID cards in Woodville Park on Monday.

Following an investigation, Western District Detectives attended and searched an address at Jeanette Street at Woodville Park on Monday.

Inside, police allegedly located a large number of identity cards that were suspected of being stolen or fraudulently obtained, ID cards being printed, and small amounts of methamphetamine and equipment.

Appearing in court on Tuesday was Phu Quoc Tran, 41, of Woodville Park, who faced charges of theft, unlawful possession and possessing a controlled drug.

Tran applied for bail and the police prosecutor said anything less than home detention was opposed.

“We say this is fairly sophisticated fake ID production. With this particular defendant, his room had seven fake IDs in it,” the police prosecutor said.

“The other co-accused who were present at the house were caught red-handed, actively printing fake IDs.

“We say they were using these fake IDs in order to gain access to financial institutions and to obtain goods and services.”

Four people appeared in the Port Adelaide Magistrates Court relating to a fake ID production. Picture: Kaysee Miller

The defence lawyer for Tran said while there appeared to be a degree of sophistication to the operation, the extent of Tran’s involvement was yet to be proven.

Magistrate Stefan Metanomski granted bail on the condition Tran have no contact with the co-accused.

Sade Amelia Bifulco, 33, of Woodville Park, appeared in court on Tuesday charged with theft and unlawful possession.

Ella May Russell, 34, of Kent Town, also appeared charged with theft and unlawful possession, and Kym Marie Fernandez, 43, of Woodville Park, appeared on the same charges.

Magistrate Metanomski ordered home detention reports be undertaken for all three women, who will next appear on June 1.

Another three people were reported and will face court at a later date including a 27-year-old Kilkenny man for possessing a controlled drug and equipment, a 49-year-old Forestville man for unlawful possession and possessing a controlled drug and a 31-year-old Woodville Park woman for unlawful possession, possessing equipment and two unrelated matters.

The investigation remains ongoing, police ask anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or report on line at www.crimestopperssa.com.au – you can remain anonymous.