There are a few native settlements but the population is sparse. Getting around is done mostly on logging roads or by boat or airplane. The RCMP said all of the passengers had to remain on board until Health Canada checked the ship for infectious diseases such as malaria and tuberculosis. Officials were also concerned about malnutrition, dehydration and dysentery among the ship's passengers. Health Canada officials now say there's no indication of serious illness.
Officials say it's the worst case of human smuggling they've ever seen.
They estimate the group spent 38 days at sea. The illegal immigrants were bussed to Canadian Forces Base Esquimalt in British Columbia. They will be detained at the base, awaiting an immigration hearing. The ship had no markings on it but an official with Citizenship and Immigration says the people on board are Chinese. Varnai says this operation has all the hallmarks of organized crime.