63 asylum seekers intercepted off Australia

Jake Sturmer

Last Updated: Tue, 7 Apr 2009 12:09:00 +1000

Australian authorities have picked up 63 suspected asylum seekers in a boat off Western Australia's northern coast.

A customs and border protection vessel, Storm Bay, intercepted the boat last Thursday, 31 nautical miles south-west of Ashmore Island.

The 63 are being taken to the Christmas Island detention centre for health and security checks.

Their arrival follows the discovery of a boat carrying 50 people in the Torres Strait just over a week ago.

They have also been sent to Christmas Island.

Three months ago, the Australian government stepped up surveillance in response to an increase in the number of suspected asylum seekers arriving in Australia's northern waters.

Home Affairs Minister Bob Debus says the government remains committed to strong border security arrangements.

Language News