Ray Paul

IOM believes PNG bust linked to trafficking ring

The Thai-owned refrigerator ship Blissful Reefer has been impounded by PNG authorities in Daru -- eight fishermen have so far been rescued, with 19 other crew members still to be questioned.

The chief of mission for the IOM in PNG, George Gigauri, says the rescued men were part of a larger group of forced labourers to be distributed to various fishing boats.

He says PNG authorities are searching for other similar vessels believed to be in its waters.

Mr Gigauri says the Blissful Reefer appears to be part of a wider trafficking ring.