Mensink now a fugitive
A WARRANT has been issued for Clive Mensink’s arrest after the former Queensland Nickel boss again failed to appear for questioning in court over the company’s collapse.
Lawyers for the special purpose liquidators PPB Advisory are trying to have the nephew of Clive Palmer committed for contempt over his failure to appear in the Federal Court in Brisbane, a necessary step to secure another warrant to pave the way for extradition.
Mr Mensink, who was the sole registered director of the nickel company before it collapsed, has been on an overseas holiday since June last year and last month was ordered to return to Australia to face public examination.
He did not turn up yesterday. Solicitor Sam Iskander confirmed he had been unable to reach his client and could not say “with certainty” whether Mr Mensink was aware of the latest orders.
Justice John Dowsett signalled the court might call on the Australian Federal Police and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade to assist in tracking him down.
Mr Iskander told the court Mr Mensink had previously said in an affidavit that he would return in July but Justice Dowsett was dubious.
“Why would I act on that basis? He’s refused to comply with the order of the court,” he said.
“He’s supposed to come here and account for his stewardship as director of this company – and he’s just refusing to come.”
Justice Dowsett issued the arrest warrant to “bring him before the court for examination”, pointing out Mr Mensink had failed to maintain contact with his legal team.
The court heard authorities would not be able to extradite Mr Mensink unless a separate warrant was served relating to contempt.
Counsel for PPB Advisory applied to have him committed on that charge.
The matter was adjourned to a hearing today.