Lankans before Aussie court

Eight Sri Lankan asylum seekers, accused of taking part in a riot on Christmas Island, will stand trial in Australia later this year.

The Australian Federal Police charged the men with weapons and rioting offenses, after the melee at the island's detention centre in November 2009.

Broom stick handles, pool cues and tree branches were allegedly used in the brawl, which involved up to 200 people and left 43 injured.

All eight men will be represented by lawyers from legal aid and are due to stand trial together in the Perth Magistrates Court in September. Another Sri Lankan man admitted his role in the riot and has already been sentenced.