SYDNEY - Australian Customes officials intercepted a suspected asylum-seeker vessel to the northeast of Ashmore Island on Christmas Day, according to a statement from Home Affairs Minister Brendan O'Connor.

Related readings:  Immigration debate 'killing the government'  Asylum seeker boat capsizes off Australia, many feared dead  Asylum seekers boat intercepted by Australian Navy  Australian govt, opposition fight over asylum policy

The statement said initial indications suggested there were 57 passengers and three crew on board. The group will be transferred to Christmas Island of Australia where they will undergo security, identity and health checks.

Earlier this month, dozens of asylum seekers were killed after their boat smashed onto rocks in rough conditions off Christmas Island. About 70 people were reportedly aboard the boat, including women and children. The asylum seekers are mainly from Iraq and Iran.