Australian Officials Pay Refugees Return to Indonesia

By : Agus *)

Vice Foreign Ministry of Indonesia, AM Fachir said Indonesia Government has asked clarification to Australia related on allegation that Australia officals has paid refugee smugglers which intend to enter Australian waters and redirect the ship to return to Indonesia and Papua New Guinea as well.

Fachir also said the UN commission that takes care of the problem of refugees (UNHCR) earlier urged every country in order not to prohibit refugees entrace their country, based on this order, Indonesia Government wont forbid refugees which will enter Indonesia border.

On the other hands, UNHCR asked for an explanation. They focused on the accusations calling the Australian navy to pay smugglers. The reason, UNHCR reported it had talked directly with passengers who justify it.

Meanwhile, Foreign Minister of Indonesia, Retno Marsudi has met with the Australian ambassador in Jakarta, Paul Grigson to discuss this matter.

Australian immigration spokesman, Richard Marles also warned that it is potentially damaging to relations with neighboring countries.

Previously, Australia Prime Minister Tony Abbott not confirmed the report. He just said that it is responsible for stopping the wave of migrants to Australia. He refused to explain how the government official did it.

*) The Author Is Brunei Darussalam Contributor