Vessel off Western Australian coast carrying Sri Lankans found

AUSTRALIA: Police in Geraldton say a wooden boat found off the West Australian coast carrying 12 Sri Lankans was spotted on Thursday night after it was first reported by campers near Shark Bay.

Witnesses say a number of people attempted to swim ashore at Steep Point, but later returned to the boat which then headed north.

Acting Senior Sergeant Paul Matthews says details are still coming to light.

“Customs officers have spoken to them, and identified them as being Sri Lankan,” he said.

The group is said to be in good health with access to food and water.

A spokesman for the Immigration Minister says a decision on accommodation arrangements will be made once the reason for their travel is established.

Sergeant Matthews says it is the furthest south a vessel has got without being detected. Police say those on the boat are from Sri Lanka. ABC TV