SIEV-X survivor says he was told boat seaworthy

ABC
Last Update: Friday, May 20, 2005. 1:14pm (AEST)

A former refugee who survived the sinking of the SIEV-X boat off Indonesia has told a Brisbane court the accused smuggler told them the boat was seaworthy.

Khaleed Daoed is on trial in the Supreme Court, facing two charges of helping to organise illegal entry into Australia.

He has pleaded not guilty.

Ali Kahrachman, 33, was a refugee on board the SIEV-X which capsized in October 2001, causing the deaths of 353 asylum seekers.

Mr Kahrachman gave evidence today saying Daoed told him, prior to the boat's departure, that everything on the boat was new, including the motors and bilge pump.

Mr Kahrachman told jurors he paid Daoed $US550 for the trip and remembers the accused helped organise refugees from their accommodation to the beach and onto the boat.

The trial continues.

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