TWENTY-three asylum seekers and two crew are being taken to Darwin after the vessel they were travelling in issued a mayday call off Ashmore Islands.
Customs said the vessel had sought help through the Australian Maritime Safety Authority on Wednesday.
When officials reached the boat it was still afloat.
Border protection command is now arranging for the 25 people to be taken to Darwin for security, health and identity checks.
Immigration officials will then make a decision about their long-term placement.
Start of sidebar. Skip to end of sidebar.
End of sidebar. Return to start of sidebar.
Convicted people smugglers who were minors will be released from prison and sent home