A vessel has been intercepted in a likely attempt to illegally enter Australia from Sri Lanka.
The Australian Government’s policy remains unchanged. We will intercept any vessel seeking to reach Australia illegally and to safely return those on board to their point of departure or country of origin.
Measures and safeguards are in place to enable actions and activities to be undertaken in accordance with Australian domestic law and Australia’s obligations under international law.
The overriding priority for all agencies involved in Operation Sovereign Borders is the safety of all persons involved, including potential illegal immigrants and vessel crews as well as Australian personnel.
In line with long standing practice, we will make no further comment.
RADM Justin Jones, CSC, RAN
Commander – Joint Agency Task Force Operation Sovereign Borders
