Greek coast guard authorities have mounted a rescue operation after an SOS signal was sent by a vessel carrying illegal immigrants on Sunday night. According to the Greek Ministry of shipping the number of immigrants amount to 400
The vessel was located about 65 nautical miles north-northwest of the island of Crete, Greece. Two cargo ships and an American war ship have rushed to the point of distress. In addition, a floating vessel of the Greek coast guard and a frigate of the Hellenic Navy have departed from Piraeus port to participate in the rescue operation. Although the weather conditions are not good, no serious problems have been caused and the vessel does not face the risk of sinking.
During the last years similar incidents in Greece have increased as the country is a way in to the rest European countries. On March, 7, a boat carrying immigrants was located in the area of Sikamia in Lesvos island, western Greece. The boat had overflowed with water and the lives of the passengers were in great danger. The coast guard authorities managed to save twenty-one people.
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