HMAS Maitland intercepts vessel

12 September 2009

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

The Royal Australian Navy patrol boat HMAS Maitland, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted the vessel at 7:07 pm (AEST) on 12 September 2009 approximately 3 nautical miles north west of Ashmore Island.

Initial indications suggest 65 passengers and three crew are on board the vessel.

The Minister for Home Affairs, Mr Brendan O’Connor, said that the Australian Government places a high priority on protecting Australia’s borders, including working closely with our neighbours to address the global problem of people smuggling.

“People smuggling is a global problem. 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.

“Situations around the world mean that large numbers of displaced persons are looking for settlement in wealthy, developed nations like Australia and can be targeted by, and fall prey to, people smugglers.

“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 surveillance 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.”