Reports indicate 27 dead in boat crash

A boat carrying asylum seekers that capsized on Christmas Island has claimed the
lives of 27 people, according to the latest report from authorities.
The incident, which saw a boat carrying up to 80 people crash against limestone
rocks near Flying Fish Cove, happened on Wednesday at about 6.30am local time.
Australian Customs and Border Protection has confirmed that as at 6pm (AEDT) 41
people have been rescued from the water and another person made it to the shore.
However, 27 people have reportedly died and their bodies have also been recovered by
authorities.
In a statement, Customs said ongoing investigations would be conducted by the
Australian Federal Police and the Western Australia Police, who will prepare a
report for the WA Coroner.
"Australian government agencies including the Australian Customs and Border
Protection Service and Australian Federal Police continue to coordinate a search and
rescue operation," it said.
"The rescue is being conducted in extremely difficult and dangerous conditions.
"The search and rescue situation is ongoing. The safety of all involved in this
situation is the immediate priority."
Border Protection Command earlier deployed the HMAS Pirie and ACV Triton to provide
immediate assistance during the rescue.
Life jackets were also deployed to the people in the water.
"We will continue the search until last light and review the situation and determine
what further actions might need to be taken before first light tomorrow," the
statement read.