Police are continuing a search and rescue operation in the Torres Strait for five people missing after a vessel was reported overdue on July 31.
The 7-metre vessel departed Badu Island at around 3pm on July 31 with plans to travel to Dauan Island with a 22-year-old man, 47-year-old man, 21-year-old woman, 21-year-old woman and a 9-year-old boy.
Investigations indicate that it is highly unlikely that a child's body located near Old Mawatta Village on mainland Papua New Guinea on August 2 is that of the missing 9-year-old boy.
The boat was located approximately 4.5 kms west of Dauan Island at around 1.50pm on August 2 with no people onboard. The boat has been recovered and will be examined this week by Water Police.
A search and rescue operation coupled with water and air efforts was commenced immediately upon receiving information that the vessel was overdue using rotary aircraft.
Yesterday's search failed to locate any further items.
Today the search will concentrate on coastline searching with assistance from Queensland Police Vessel Handran and the Queensland Police Vessel Olive as well as aerial assets.
An assessment of the continuation of the search and rescue operation will be made late this afternoon.
Police are continuing to liaise with the families of the missing people to keep them informed of details of search and rescue efforts.
If you have information for police, contact Policelink on 131 444 or provide information using the online form 24hrs per day.
You can report information about crime anonymously to Crime Stoppers, a registered charity and community volunteer organisation, by calling 1800 333 000 or via crimestoppersqld.com.au 24hrs per day.
