Australian search and rescue personnel have successfully rescued 106 people from the water after their boat capsized north of Christmas Island.
The Australian maritime safety authority (Amsa) received a request for help from the vessel early on Tuesday morning. Amsa broadcast a call for assistance to any shipping in the area. A merchant ship responded.
Amsa earlier estimated that 105 people were onboard but is now unable to confirm the exact number of passengers.
The boat was carrying people attempting to seek asylum in Australia, and foundered about 120 nautical miles north of Christmas Island.
HMAS Parramatta arrived on the scene shortly after midday AEST and confirmed the vessel “was upright but partially submerged”.
Amsa said a number of people had been seen in the water.
Crew from the Parramatta began a rescue operation at around 12.25pm AEST with assistance from a customs aircraft. Another navy vessel, HMAS Pirie, and additional customs aircraft have been asked to attend and a merchant vessel is in the area.
By 3.30pm AEST on Tuesday 106 passengers had been rescued. Two people reportedly had minor injuries.
The search and rescue operation is continuing to ensure there are no more people left in the water. – The Guardian
