HMAS Glenelg intercepts SIEV

23 September 2009

Border Protection Command today successfully intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel.

The Royal Australian Navy patrol boat HMAS Glenelg, crewed by Aware One and operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted the vessel at 5.00 am (AEST) on 23 September in the contiguous zone north-west of Christmas Island.

HMAS Glenelg initially sighted the vessel at approximately 2.00 am (AEST) today, maintaining surveillance until the vessel entered Australian waters.

Initial indications suggest 98 passengers are on board the vessel.

The Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O’Connor, said situations around the world mean that large numbers of displaced persons are looking for settlement and can be targeted by, and fall prey to, people smugglers.

“According to the UNHCR 2008 Global Trends report, there were 42 million forcibly displaced persons worldwide at the end of 2008, including 15.2 million refugees,” Mr O’Connor said.

“The Australian Government remains vigilant and committed to protecting Australia’s borders and today’s successful interception by Border Protection Command continues to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proactive response program in place.” Mr O’Connor said.

“The group will be transferred to Christmas Island where they will undergo security, identity and health checks as well as establish their reasons for travel.”