At least two asylum seekers have died after a boat capsized north of Christmas Island. (File picture) Source: The Daily Telegraph
A FRANTIC rescue bid is underway north of Christmas Island where an asylum seeker boat carrying 95 people has capsized.
Department of Immigration officials have confirmed at least two people have drowned in the capsizing and two were critically injured.
The search of waters north of Christmas Island is continuing, Homes Affairs Minister Jason Clare said.
He said 95 people had been plucked from the water, including the two who drowned and the two critically injured people.
"HMAS Maitland and air assets remain in the area to continue the search effort," he said.
The rescued asylum seekers arrived at Christmas Island just before 2pm and will undergo health, security and identity checks, Mr Clare said.
The boat capsized around 11.30am, 15 nautical miles north of Christmas Island.
Christmas Island administrator Jon Stanhope told the ABC the Ocean Protector Customs vessel was very close to the capsized boat.
"There were approximately 90 people on board, the majority of those have been taken on board the Ocean Protector.
"The Ocean Protector has arrived in Flying Fish Cove and the disembarkation of the injured and the asylum seekers on board is about to commence."
The capsize comes after another vessel carrying almost 130 people was intercepted earlier today.
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