Second asylum-seeker boat may have capsized between SL and Australia

11 June 2013 07:18 am Views - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}} 5 Bookmark

CHATURANGA PRADEEP SAMARAWICKRAMA Follow

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Another asylum seeker boat is feared to have capsized off Australia, with authorities searching for a missing vessel since yesterday.

Australian Maritime Safety Authority this afternoon confirmed two aircraft were searching for a boat off Cocos Island, off the coast of WA between Australia and Sri Lanka.

The boat was believed to be about 260 nautical miles north of the island.

An AMSA spokeswoman said the vessel was heading towards the island last Wednesday but Border Protection Command had lost track of it over the weekend.

"Border Protection Command contacted AMSA on Sunday because the vessel hadn't arrived," the spokeswoman said.

"We have concerns for the vessel because it is currently missing."

It was unclear how many people were on-board the boat.

At least 55 men, women and children were lost at sea off Christmas Island after their vessel vanished last week. (Source: The Australian)

Comments - 5

Suq Madique Tuesday, 11 June 2013 11:15 AM

Highlight this news on TV to deter potential refugee seekers.

0 19

Chanaka Tuesday, 11 June 2013 12:00 AM

fleeing to most welcoming south India would have better chances in trying to get in to Auzi?? via DM Android App

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TM Wednesday, 12 June 2013 12:00 AM

Sri Lankans never learn. via DM Android App

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Fassey Wednesday, 12 June 2013 02:06 AM

Greener pastures end up in loss of everything money and life.
Utter stupidity.

0 8

kangaroo Wednesday, 12 June 2013 12:00 AM

Search and rescue for illegal 'boat people'. This is why more keep coming. They know somehow they will get a foot in. via DM Android App

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