FED:Two boats intercepted off WA coast

AAP General News (Australia)
12-02-2011
FED:Two boats intercepted off WA coast

SYDNEY, Dec 2 AAP - Two boats carrying nearly 100 asylum-seekers have been intercepted
by border protection vessels off the West Australian coast.

HMAS Launceston boarded a boat northeast of Ashmore Island on Friday afternoon, a statement
issued by Home Affairs Minister Brendan O'Connor said.

It was detected by surveillance aircraft and was believed to be carrying 19 passengers
and three crew members.

Later on Friday afternoon, HMAS Ararat intercepted a boat west of Christmas Island
following a request for assistance.

Initial indications suggest there were 75 passengers and three crew on board, Mr O'Connor said.

The passengers will be transferred to Christmas Island, where they will undergo security,
health and identity checks.

The latest arrivals come after two boats carrying more than 200 asylum seekers were
intercepted off the West Australian coast on Thursday.

AAP ih/goc/

KEYWORD: BOAT ARRIVE

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