Minister for home affairs media release

Border Protection Command boards vessel - 2 July 2010

HMAS Wollongong, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, today located a suspected irregular entry vessel north of Christmas Island.

Due to poor weather conditions in the area, HMAS Wollongong escorted the boat to Christmas Island and this morning boarded the vessel at Flying Fish Cove.

Initial indications are that there are 73 passengers and 4 crew on board.

The people have been transferred to Christmas Island where they will undergo security, identity 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