Emergency, an Italian humanitarian group, announced on Saturday that they had successfully rescued 87 people, including women and children, who were stranded in an overcrowded boat in the Mediterranean Sea. The rescue operation took place on Friday evening after the group, which had departed from Zawiya, Libya, found themselves without food and water, their boat adrift and overcrowded. The rescue crew found the boat in a dire situation, taking on water with deflated tubes, putting the lives of those on board at risk. Among the rescued individuals were a pregnant woman and fourteen unaccompanied minors, who were identified as the most vulnerable cases and given immediate medical attention.
Amidst the rescue operation, the humanitarian group’s priority was the well-being and safety of those in need. They quickly provided assistance to the pregnant woman in her fourth month and a diabetic boy, ensuring they received the necessary medical care. Following the completion of the rescue and the notification of relevant authorities, the city of Naples was designated as the port where the rescued individuals would disembark. The scheduled arrival of the group in Naples was set for Monday morning, providing both a safe haven and access to further assistance for those who had been rescued.
The individuals who were rescued came from countries affected by conflicts and severe economic, political, or social crises, including Sudan, Nigeria, Niger, South Sudan, Eritrea, Bangladesh, Mali, Togo, Ghana, Liberia, Chad, Cameroon, Senegal, and the Ivory Coast. These vulnerable individuals embarked on perilous journeys in search of safety, security, and better opportunities, facing immense challenges along the way. The dedicated crew of the rescue ship, consisting of seafarers, doctors, mediators, and rescuers, has been actively operating in the central Mediterranean since December 2022, providing essential support and assistance to those in need.
Since its inception, the rescue ship has successfully saved a total of 1,631 individuals who were at risk in the Mediterranean Sea. The continuous efforts of the crew have been instrumental in preventing further tragedies and providing a lifeline to those in distress. The commitment and dedication of the team have made a significant impact on the lives of countless individuals who have found themselves in precarious situations, highlighting the importance of humanitarian aid and support in times of crisis. The successful rescue of the 87 individuals, including vulnerable women and children, is a testament to the unwavering resolve of Emergency and its personnel in saving lives and providing hope for a better future for those in need.
