An Australian senator is warning today's closure of the Manus Island detention centre could end in tragedy.
The Papua New Guinea navy is due to take control of the centre where water, food and electricity are scheduled to be cut.
But about 700 refugees detained there by Australia plan to peacefully resist relocation.
Iranian detainee Farhad Rahmati said the refugees would not leave voluntarily.
The PNG government said it would not to use force to move the refugees to three buildings in the island's main town.
But senator Nick McKim said with a police paramilitary squad on standby for the closure, a violent confrontation was possible.
Lawyers yesterday filed an application to the PNG Supreme court which could delay the closure.
They are hoping the application will be heard today.
Source: RadioNZ
