Navy Intercepts Two SIEVS

27 September 2009

HMAS Ararat, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, and with Assail Six crew onboard, intercepted a suspected illegal entry vessel (SIEV) at 4:05pm (AEST) on 27 September approximately 93 nautical miles north west of Darwin. Initial indications suggest 12 passengers are on board the vessel.

HMAS Broome, also operating under the control of Border Protection Command, and with Assail Four crew onboard, intercepted another vessel at 4:55pm (AEST) on 27 September approximately 7 nautical miles north of Ashmore Island. Initial indications suggest 28 passengers and 4 crew are on board the vessel intercepted by HMAS Broome.

The Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O’Connor, said that people smuggling is a world-wide problem and that Australia is committed to working closely with our neighbours to address the issue.

“Situations around the world mean that large numbers of displaced persons are looking for settlement in stable, democratic nations such as Australia and can be targeted by, and fall prey to, people smugglers,” Mr O’Connor said.

“People smuggling is not just an issue for Australia – it is a global and regional problem. The commitment of our neighbours, through bilateral cooperation and the Bali Process on People Smuggling, Trafficking in Persons and Related Transnational Crime, is critical to addressing this most serious issue.”

The Minister said recent meetings with Government officials in Indonesia and Malaysia have led to positive steps forward in bilateral and regional cooperation to deter people smuggling.

“For example, since September 2008, there have been 19 arrests of facilitators and organisers of people smuggling ventures in the region,” Mr O’Connor said.

“The Australian Government remains vigilant and committed to protecting Australia’s borders. 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.”