Minister for home affairs media release

Border Protection Command intercepts vessel - 5 June 2010

Border Protection Command today successfully intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel.
 
HMAS Maryborough, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted the boat this morning, north west of Ashmore Islands. 
 
The vessel was initially detected by a Customs and Border Protection Dash-8 aircraft, under the control of Border Protection Command.
 
Initial indications are that there are 39 passengers and five crew on board the boat.
 
The group will be transferred to Christmas Island where they will undergo identity, security and health checks and their reasons for travel will be established.
 
While their nationality is yet to be confirmed, if these asylum seekers are Sri Lankans or Afghans, the processing suspension introduced by the Government on 9 April 2010 will apply.
 
Media Adviser: Jayne Stinson 0458 547 512 jayne.stinson@ag.gov.au