More Mideast immigrants detained

KUPANG, East Nusa Tenggara: A total of 81 illegal immigrants, who claim to originate from the Middle East and Iraq, have been arrested on their way to Australia, a police officer said on Wednesday.

Kupang Police chief Adj. Sr. Comr. Williardi Wizard told reporters that 67 of the immigrants were arrested on Monday in Sabu, in Raijua district, when their boat was forced to dock after sustaining a leak during a storm.

Later on Monday, 14 Iraq nationals were detained in the seaport of Nusa Lontar shortly after disembarking from the Dobonsolo ship which transported them from Sulawesi.

Kupang has often been used as a transit point for illegal immigrants en route to Australia. They mostly use traditional or fishing boats to reach Australia, a trip which normally takes them two days.

Data from the East Nusa Tenggara police revealed that between January and June this year, 318 illegal immigrants had been arrested. (30)