Investigators barred from MH17 crash site

Investigators tasked with uncovering the truth behind the MH17 disaster face an uphill battle, with reports that the crash site is still being controlled by pro-Russian separatists.

It has been reported that the rebels are restricting access to the crash site in Ukraine.

The Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) sent 20 observers to the crash site.

However, spokesman Thomas Greminger said the group was denied access, stopped by armed groups of men.

There have also been reports of gunfire at the site.

Prime Minister Tony Abbott has committed Department of Foreign Affairs and Australian Federal Police personnel to the investigation of the MH17 crash, which killed 28 Australians among nearly 300 fatalities.

World leaders including Mr Abbott and US President Barack Obama have said it appears beyond doubt the Malaysia Airlines flight was shot down by a surface to air missile, and have called on Russian President Vladimir Putin to cooperated with a thorough, international investigation.

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