The
Australian government is refusing to comment on reports circulating on
Christmas Island that 153 Tamil asylum seekers have been handed over to
the Sri Lankan navy.
The asylum seekers, who have not communicated with civilians since
Saturday morning, were on a boat allegedly intercepted by the Australian
navy near Christmas Island, president of the Shire of Christmas Island
Gordon Thomson said. They were then handed over to Sri Lanka’s
military.
Refugee groups sound alarm over fate of Tamil asylum seekers on board a boat heading to Australia, amid information blackout
Christmas Island, possible intended destination of the asylum seekers.
Tuesday 1 July 2014
Australia would “flagrantly” violate the refugee convention if 153 Tamil
asylum seekers on board a boat headed to Australia were sent to Sri
Lanka without being allowed to lodge a claim for protection, the Refugee
Council of Australia has warned.
Scott Morrison will not confirm claims a boat of asylum seekers is in trouble off the coast of Christmas Island. Photo: Andrew Meares
The
Australian government is refusing to comment on reports circulating on
Christmas Island that 153 Tamil asylum seekers have been handed over to
the Sri Lankan navy.
The
Australian government is refusing to comment on reports circulating on
Christmas Island that 153 Tamil asylum seekers have been handed over to
the Sri Lankan navy.
