Fed: Groups of boat people poised to leave Indonesia = 2

AAP General News (Australia)
02-18-2000
Fed: Groups of boat people poised to leave Indonesia = 2

Mr Ruddock later told journalists in Sydney that groups of potential immigrants were
building up in Indonesia because it was becoming more difficult to carry out smuggling
operations.

"It is certainly the case that people that have been in Indonesia ... are being consolidated
as we are informed ... into larger groups," he said.

"One of the reasons I think that's been necessary is because of punishment of smugglers
who find their way to Australia. I think they're finding it more difficult to get crews."

Mr Ruddock said Australian agencies were involved in monitoring the situation and were
sharing intelligence information with Indonesian authorities.

"We stand by to assist the Indonesians in every step that they take," he said.

AAP jjs/wjf/de

KEYWORD: BOAT ARRIVALS RUDDOCK 2 PERTH (REOPENS)

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