In a recent incident, the crew of the German rescue vessel, Humanity 1, operating in the central Mediterranean, has accused the crew of a Libyan coast guard vessel of threatening them while they attempted to rescue 77 migrants from small boats. According to a press release from SOS Humanity, the organization operating Humanity 1, the Libyan coast guard not only obstructed the rescue efforts but also fired a shot into the sea, leading to panic among the migrants and at least one person drowning.
The rescue ship, Humanity 1, managed to save 77 migrants from three separate small boats despite the challenges posed by the Libyan coast guard. Testimonies from survivors revealed that some individuals were forced into the water, resulting in one casualty, while approximately 20 others were returned to Libya against their will, a violation of international law.
SOS Humanity condemned the actions of the Libyan coast guard, particularly highlighting the danger posed to human lives, considering the vessel’s financing by the EU and Italy. The organization emphasized the need for accountability and adherence to international maritime laws.
Laura Gorriahn, chairperson of the SOS Humanity board and a volunteer human rights observer on Humanity 1, expressed shock at witnessing the incident firsthand, emphasizing the urgent need for intervention to prevent further violations.
The captain of Humanity 1 reported the incident to Italian authorities, who initially directed the ship to the port of Bari but later permitted it to dock in Crotone due to a storm. The vessel is expected to arrive in Crotone on Monday afternoon, where the rescued migrants will be disembarked.
This marks Humanity 1’s 11th rescue mission, with previous operations also witnessing challenges posed by the Libyan coast guard. In earlier missions, the crew rescued a significant number of migrants, including minors, further highlighting the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the Mediterranean.