Overview
- The ABC has removed the Four Corners episodes Meth Highway (2024) and Cocaine Nation (2023) from all its platforms after identifying concerns about the veracity of certain sources used in those programs.
- Both episodes were led by reporter Mahmood Fazal, who was previously terminated by the ABC following an internal investigation triggered by his appearance on a podcast with a former underworld figure.
- The ABC said the decision to withdraw the programs is separate from the earlier investigation into Fazal’s podcast appearance.
- The matter has been referred to the ABC Ombudsman for an independent review of whether the episodes complied with the corporation’s editorial policies and to guide any further disciplinary or corrective steps.
- Four Corners is the ABC’s flagship investigations show, so the ombudsman’s findings will shape public confidence in ABC sourcing and oversight and could lead to changes in vetting and editorial controls.