Fed: More suspected illegal entrants land on Christmas Island

AAP General News (Australia)
12-21-1999
Fed: More suspected illegal entrants land on Christmas Island

The Federal government says another boatload of suspected illegal immigrants has arrived
at Christmas Island.

Customs Minister AMANDA VANSTONE says the boat was carrying 228 suspected illegal entrants
and three crew.

The boat was first spotted off Christmas Island yesterday and arrived late last night.

Senator VANSTONE says another suspicious boat has also been sighted off Christmas Island,
while a Customs vessel is shadowing another suspicious boat with 35 people on board near
Ashmore Reef.

The latest arrivals has brought the number of suspected illegal immigrants this month
to more than 500.

Fourteen boats brought a record 1,240 illegals to Australia in November.

AAP RTV jg/smf/rt

KEYWORD: BOAT (CANBERRA)

1999 AAP Information Services Pty Limited (AAP) or its Licensors.