GROUP DISEMBARKS OCEANIC VIKING IN INDONESIA
13 November 2009
A group of 22 adult males who are among the 78 people rescued at sea on 18 October have disembarked the ACV Oceanic Viking in the port of Tanjung Pinang.
The group was escorted by Australian and Indonesian officials to the Tanjung Pinang detention centre where they will be accommodated and initial processing will be undertaken.
The Australian team will continue discussions with the remaining people on board the Oceanic Viking to secure their safe disembarkation in Indonesia.
Both the Australian and Indonesian governments have stated they are prepared to be patient when it comes to this complex and challenging matter.
All involved will continue to work toward the realisation of the agreement between the Prime Minister and the Indonesian President that all those people rescued will disembark in Indonesia.
Australian Customs and Border Protection officers are ensuring the continued safety and well being of the rescued people on board the Oceanic Viking.
The Australian Government thanks the Indonesian government for its assistance in the disembarkation.
Media Contact: Brian Humphreys 0438 595 567
