Australian Border Force officer dies on vessel

An officer has died on an Australian Border Force vessel in the Torres Strait in circumstances that are still be revealed.

The Australian Border Force has reportedly intercepted a boat carrying about 20 Sri Lankan asylum seekers in the Indian Ocean.

The Australian Border Force has reportedly intercepted a boat carrying about 20 Sri Lankan asylum seekers in the Indian Ocean. Source: AAP

An Australian Border Force force officer has died on a vessel in the Torres Strait.

ABF is working with Queensland Police and Comcare to investigate the death overnight on an ABF cutter, Commissioner Michael Outram said on Wednesday.

ABF did not say how the officer died.

"I have offered my deepest condolences to the officer's family," Mr Outram said.

"My immediate concern is for the welfare of our officer's family and of the crew of the vessel.

"Ongoing welfare support is being provided to them and I have ensured that all ABF officers are offered support at this time."
A file image of Australian Border Force Commissioner Michael Outram
Michael Outram Source: AAP
No personal or service record details of the officer will be released out of respect for the family.

Public sector union deputy national president Lisa Newman said it was expected more details would come to light in coming days.

"Our thoughts are with the officer's co-workers, family and friends, and in the meantime, we continue working with our members to support them," she told AAP.

"Any issues that are identified in this matter will be actively followed up by our workplace delegates and officials as they emerge."

The incident is now the subject of a coronial investigation.


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