Minister for home affairs media release

Border Protection Command assists vessel - 8 June 2010

ACV Oceanic Viking, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, has today assisted a boat south west of Scott Reef under the Safety of Life at Sea convention. 

The boat was initially detected by a Customs and Border Protection Dash 8 aircraft, operating under the control of Border Protection Command.

Initial indications suggest that there are 35 passengers and two crew on board.

The people on board the vessel are safe.

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.

The passengers and crew will be conveyed to Christmas Island. They will undergo health, identity and security checks and their reasons for travel will be established.

Media Adviser: Jayne Stinson 0458 547 512
Customs and Border Protection Media 02 6275 6793