Alarm sounds as 3 die, 430 facing shipwreck between Tunisia and Malta
A search and rescue NGO is urging the authorities to rescue 430 shipwrecked people in the search and rescue area of Malta, outside Tunisia.
Late Wednesday, Alarm Phone said more than 400 people were in danger in the high seas.
“People on the overcrowded boat said it was sinking. We warned the authorities but Italy said they were not responsible for the area. Such a large boat cannot be handled by the so-called Libyan coastguard without loss. of lives, “she urged on social media. media.
In the early hours of Thursday, the NGO said that it was in regular contact with the 430 people in difficulty who were advancing in the SAR area of Malta.
“There is panic on board. They say people are dying and are urgently asking for help. Authorities are not responding and there is no rescue in sight.”
“Don’t let them drown,” the organization urged.
Shortly after 7am, the organization raised the alarm again, saying the boat was slowly breaking down and three people died.
“Europe’s authorities are monitoring but not rescuing. Shipwreck is unfolding before your eyes,” he said.
Asked for an update, a spokesman said Times of Malta that the 430 people are in the SAR of Malta but in Tunisian territorial waters.
The Armed Forces of Malta asked Times of Malta to send an email about the issue.
On Wednesday, a woman died after a group of migrants were rescued at sea by the AFM.
The group of 43 people, many of whom appeared to be overwhelmed and unwell, arrived in Senglea on board an AFM patrol boat in the morning. Twelve women and two children were among the group, the interior ministry said.
In September, the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights pointed to Malta’s “intensified efforts” to stop asylum seekers from landing on the island during the pandemic.
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