Authorities sent to help asylum seekers

A BOAT carrying 42 asylum seekers required the help of Australian authorities.

ACV Triton, operating in support of the Australian Maritime Safety Authority, was sent to help the vessel north-north-west of the Cocos Islands after it sent a distress signal on Monday.

The passengers were taken to Cocos Island to undergo health and security checks before being transferred to Christmas Island.

More than 250 asylum seekers have been intercepted trying to enter Australia by boat in the first five days of December.