LibyaSociety

400 migrants rescued in the Mediterranean

Nearly 400 illegal immigrants were rescued from the drowning Ocean Viking and Open arms ships by French charities SOS Mediterranean near the Libyan coasts; however, it’s not clear which country will be hosting them.

SOS Mediterranean search and rescue coordinator Nicholas Romaniuk told AFP that they have been trying to communicate with the Libyan coastguard, but they were not receiving any response from them.

“We’re the only ones in the area, the Libyan coastguard don’t respond” Romaniuk told AFP.

He said that fair weather conditions would likely encourage more departures from Libyan shores.

SOS Mediterranean believe that the Libyan coastguard are not responding currently due to the Islamic holiday of Eid al-Adha.

Hundreds of immigrants are being rescued near the Libyan coasts frequently. Nearly 55 illegal immigrates were stuck on a wooden boat in the Mediterranean last week.

And earlier in July, it was announced that a boat carrying nearly 250 illegal immigrants crashed near al-Khums city, killing up to155 people. Other 134 migrants were rescued in an operation by the Libyan Coast Guard.

The coast guard and port security authorities said fishermen were informed of the boat crash and coordinated with the specialized teams in an attempt to rescue the immigrants.

Farhan Haq, deputy spokesman for Secretary-General of the United Nations António Guterres, expressed his sorrow over the death of immigrants. He said in a statement that Libya is “not a safe country” for immigrants.

Related Articles

Back to top button