REGARDING SEARCH AND RESCUE UNDERWAY NORTH WEST OF COCOS ISLAND
2 November 2009
Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O’Connor, has provided an update on the search and rescue operation underway approximately 350 nautical miles to the north west of Cocos Island.
The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) continues to lead search and rescue efforts following the sinking of a vessel in Australia’s search and rescue zone. At 11:15pm AEDST on 1 November, AMSA received reports that a vessel had sunk approximately 350 nautical miles (648.2 Km) north west of Cocos Island.
Brendan O’Connor said this is a tragic situation and that the safety of life at sea remains the priority of the Australian Government.
"At this stage 11 people are believed to be missing and there are grave concerns for their safety.
The latest advice is that 27 people have been rescued and are on board two vessels; 18 are on board the LNG Pioneer and 9 on board the FV Kuamg (Taiwanese fishing vessel). The FV Kuamg also has one deceased person on board. Both vessels remain onsite providing assistance at the request of Australian authorities.
Initial indications are that 39 people were believed to have been on board.
One Royal Australian Air Force AP3 Orion, an AMSA Dornier and two jet aircraft will continue to search to area during the last remaining daylight.
Because this is an ongoing situation more information will be provided as it comes to hand.
Media Contact:
Brian Humphreys 0438 595 567
Customs and Border Protection Media (02) 6275 6793
