An Indian illegal immigrant, who spent nearly a year in custody after committing an armed robbery and leading police on a dangerous pursuit through Melbourne, has been released into the community following sentencing.
Ramandeep Singh, 35, had been living in Australia illegally since his visa expired in 2019. On Friday, he walked free from Victoria’s County Court after being sentenced to 10 months in jail—a term he had already served on remand since his arrest in March 2024.
Singh was taken into custody after using a hammer to rob a woman of her handbag in Hoppers Crossing, before leading police on a high-speed chase in a stolen Mitsubishi Lancer. The pursuit saw him driving on the wrong side of the road with flat tyres through residential streets, before police finally boxed him in and arrested him in Tarneit.
Court’s Verdict and Judge’s Remarks
On Monday, Singh pleaded guilty to charges of armed robbery, dangerous driving, and driving without a licence. He told the court he committed the robbery because he needed money and did not stop for police because he was scared.
Judge Carolene Gwynn acknowledged that Singh’s addiction to cannabis and methylamphetamine had played a role in his actions, leading to the breakdown of his marriage.
“The primary context of your offending was your drug addiction, and if you deal with it, there’s no reason why you can’t be a law-abiding citizen,”
Judge Gwynn said during sentencing.
While the robbery was deemed serious, the court found it to be spontaneous and opportunistic. However, the judge expressed concern over Singh’s reckless driving, stating that he showed a clear disregard for public safety.
“Your driving placed yourself, police members, and others at risk. It happened in the early hours, and it was only through good fortune and good management that no one was injured,”
Judge Gwynn added.
Will Singh Be Deported?
Despite his illegal immigration status, it remains unclear whether Singh will face deportation following his conviction.
The case has sparked discussions around the consequences of criminal behaviour by individuals residing in Australia unlawfully, with authorities yet to confirm if immigration officials will intervene in Singh’s case.
Community Reaction
The sentencing has raised concerns among the public about the leniency of penalties for serious offences, especially when offenders have a history of illegal residency and drug abuse. Some have called for tougher action, including mandatory deportation for non-citizens who commit violent crimes.
With Singh now released, questions remain about his future in Australia and whether he will be monitored for further offences.
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