Vessel off WA coast carrying Sri Lankans: police
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Police say those on the boat are from Sri Lanka. (ABC TV: )
Police in Geraldton say a wooden boat found off the West Australian coast is carrying 12 Sri Lankans.
The boat was spotted last night after it was first reported by campers yesterday afternoon near Shark Bay.
Witnesses say a number of people attempted to swim ashore at Steep Point, but later returned to the boat which then headed north.
Acting Senior Sergeant Paul Matthews says details are still coming to light.
"Customs officers have spoken to them, they've identified them as being Sri Lankan," he said.
The groups is said to be in good health with access to food and water.
A spokesman for the Immigration Minister says a decision on accommodation arrangements will be made once the reason for their travel is established.
Sergeant Matthews says it is the furthest south a vessel has got without being detected.
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