Customs and Border Protection Media Release

Vessel in distress at Christmas Island - 15 December 2010

This morning a vessel was sighted north-east of Flying Fish Cove off Christmas Island.

In severe weather conditions the vessel foundered close to shore and a number of persons were thrown into the water.

Australian Government agencies including the Australian Customs and Border Protection Service and Australian Federal Police continue to coordinate a search and rescue operation.

The rescue is being conducted in extremely difficult and dangerous conditions. The search and rescue situation is ongoing. The safety of all involved in this situation is the immediate priority.

Border Protection Command earlier deployed two assets, HMAS Pirie and ACV Triton to render immediate assistance and conduct the rescue. Life jackets were deployed to the persons in the water.

As at 18:00 (AESDT) 41 persons have been recovered from the water, and another person made it to the shore. Tragically, initial reports are that 27 bodies have also been recovered at this stage.

Ongoing investigations will be a matter for the Australian Federal Police and the Western Australia Police, who will prepare a report for the Western Australian Coroner.

Further updates regarding the search, rescue and recovery operation will be provided.

We will continue the search until last light and review the situation and determine what further actions might need to be taken before first light tomorrow.

Media enquiries:
Contact Customs and Border Protection Media (02) 6275 6793