The first boat turned back under the Albanian government

The first boat of suspected illegal immigrants has been returned under the supervision of the Albanian government.

Intercepted on Saturday, passengers aboard the boat were safely returned to Sri Lanka, authorities said Tuesday.

The commander of Operation Sovereign Frontiers, Rear Admiral Justin Jones, said it was proof that Australia’s policy on illegal arrivals had not changed.

“The direction of the Acting Prime Minister was clear: this government remains committed to Operation Sovereign Frontiers and to protecting the lives of people at sea,” said Rear Admiral Jones.

“We will intercept any vessel seeking to reach Australia illegally and return safely those on board, to the point of departure or to the country of origin, or, if dangerous, they will be transferred for regional processing.”

Acting Prime Minister Richard Marles said the smugglers were very important to understand that under the current government in Australia there would be no change in the border protection regime.

“I think it’s important to say in advance that this shows that there is absolutely no change in terms of setting up Australia’s borders,” he said.

Operation Sovereign Borders was founded under the leadership of Tony Abbott in 2013 to prevent the arrival of asylum seekers and refugees off the coast of Australia.

Labor has shown during the election campaign that it will continue a policy that has drastically reduced the arrival of boats, despite opposition to similar measures in 2007.

Rear Admiral Jones said all passengers had been assessed for their health and protective grounds and had been “cut off” from complying with Australia’s security obligations.

“After evaluating the theses, all passengers were safely returned to Sri Lanka,” he said.

“My message to smugglers trying illegal shipping in Australia is clear: don’t risk your life on a dangerous voyage, Australia’s policies have not changed, the legal and safe way is the only way to live in Australia.”