Torres Strait: Urgent search for missing teenager who disappeared while trying to swim to shore after his dinghy broke down on the water

An urgent search is underway for a teenager missing in Torres Strait waters.

Queensland police said a 13-year-old boy swam about 500 metres to shore at Saibai Island, approximately four kilometres south of Papua New Guinea, and raised the alarm. 

He told police that his 16-year-old mate tried to swim from a broken-down dinghy overnight but failed to make it to shore in rainy weather.

Police launched a search and rescue operation on Thursday morning.

Thursday Island Water Police immediately activated and commenced a search and rescue with support from general duties crews.

Anyone with information is urged to contact police.

More to come.