This statement provides an update on Operation Sovereign Borders (OSB) activities related to the reception and processing of unauthorised maritime arrivals (UMAs)*.
The reporting period is from 01 February 2026 to 28 February 2026.
During this reporting period:
Australian authorities successfully resolved 3 maritime people smuggling ventures targeting Australia under the OSB framework.
11 potential irregular immigrants and crew were returned to their country of departure, consistent with Australia's protection obligations.
9 UMAs were returned to their country of origin, consistent with Australia's protection obligations.
Less than 5 UMAs were transferred from Australia to a regional processing country.
No UMAs were transferred from Australia to a regional processing country, returning after a temporary purpose in Australia.
No UMAs were transferred from a regional processing country to Australia for a temporary purpose or as accompanying family.
Eleven UMAs voluntarily returned to their country of origin from a regional processing country.
No UMAs were voluntarily returned to their country of origin from Australia and no UMAs were involuntarily removed to their country of origin from Australia.
Less than 5 UMAs were resettled in a third country (less than 5 from the cohort temporarily in Australia and none direct from Nauru).
The processing of UMA protection claims is a matter for the Government of Nauru.
*These statistics reference UMAs who arrived on or after 19 July 2013.
Media contact: media@abf.gov.au
