- The ship overturns midway between Australia and Indonesia
- Vessels are on the scene in hopes of rescuing survivors
- Authorities don't know exactly how many were onboard because they board illegally, an official says
(CNN) -- A ship carrying about 200 people capsized in the waters between Australia and Indonesia, rescue officials in both countries said Thursday.
A merchant ship was diverted to the scene and is taking on survivors, said Jo Meehan of the Australian Marine Safety Authority.
An Australian naval vessel has also arrived on the scene and is preparing to take on survivors. In addition, an Australian Defence Forces aircraft at the location has dropped four life craft capable of carrying a total of 60 people, she said.
Indonesia said it is sending two warships to assist Australian rescue efforts.
"We never know the exact number of people onboard as they get onboard illegally," said Gagah Prakoso, a spokesman for Indonesia's Search and Rescue Agency.
The vessel is 110 nautical miles northwest of Christmas Island, an Australian territory but closer to Indonesia and in Indonesia's designated search and rescue area, said Susan Usher of the Western Australian Police.
She would not characterize the people on the vessel, nor did she know their fate.
