Search for asylum captain who jumped ship near Christmas Island

RESCUERS are searching for a missing asylum seeker captain after he allegedly jumped overboard before his boat was intercepted late last night. 
 
The vessel was carrying 78 passengers and one crew member.

Home Affairs Minister Brendan O'Connell confirmed that the vessel was discovered after a 000 call for help.

"The Australian Maritime Safety Authority co-ordinated a response to the call and tasked both HMAS Maitland and a vessel from the Volunteer Marine Rescue – Christmas Island," the statement said.

"Persons on board claim that the master of the vessel had left the vessel prior to the arrival of the VMR. As such, a search for the master of the boat continues and is being co-ordinated by the AMSA Rescue Co-ordination Centre.    Read More