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.
The boat was located approximately 4.5 kms west of Dauan Island at around 1.50pm on August 2 with no people onboard.
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.
Further searching by R700 (rescue helicopter) located a bag believed to be from the vessel being located within the search area. The bag contained lifejackets and will now undergo testing.
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.
Papua New Guinea authorities informed the Queensland Police Service of a child's body located near Old Mawatta Village on mainland Papua New Guinea on August 2.
Queensland Police are attempting to ascertain if body is that of the missing 9-year-old boy, however it was located outside of the search area.
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.
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