The US, Spain, and Morocco collaborated to rescue 103 migrants, 40 nautical miles west off the coast of Morocco, on January 5.
Late Tuesday evening, Spain’s Las Palmas Rescue Coordination Center was notified that two migrant boats had taken on water, raising the possibility that migrants might have gone overboard.
The Spanish center coordinated rescue efforts with the vessels closest to the rafts’ reported location. Three US Coast Guard ships, Famous-class USCGC Thetis (WMEC 910), Sentinel-class USCGC Glen Harris (WPC 1144), and USCGC Emlen Tunnell (WPC 1145) responded to the distress call, as did a nearby Royal Moroccan Navy frigate.
In a joint rescue collaboration, the crews rescued 103 migrants and found two dead migrants by Wednesday morning. All migrants were transferred to the Moroccan Navy once they were stabilized aboard the US Coast Guard vessel.
“While we are on an escort currently, the US Coast Guard will always conduct our core mission of search and rescue and observe the international law of the sea and maritime custom to assist any mariners in distress,” said Cmdr. Justin Nadolny, commanding officer of the USCGC Thetis (WMEC 910).
“This demonstrates the capability of Thetis to work with partners and our ability to respond rapidly to any situation. I’m very proud of the team,” the US commanding officer said
The US Coast Guard personnel remain operational during COVID-19, observing COVID-19 safety regulations and precautions.
add your comment
Terms of publication : Not to offend the writer, people, sacred things, or attack religions or the divine self, and refrain from racist incitement and insults.