Dramatic Rescue in Treacherous Conditions
The maritime rescue vessel Salvamar Izar successfully rescued 60 migrants of Maghrebi and sub-Saharan origin at 12:35 pm today, approximately 50 kilometres southeast of Fuerteventura. The inflatable boat carrying them had been missing for several days. According to the Red Cross, the passengers are 56 men, two women, and two minors, all of whom are reported to be in good health.
Operation Coordinated by Search Aircraft
The rescue was initiated after a Sasemar 103 search and rescue plane spotted the vulnerable craft this morning. The inflatable was located about 56 kilometres southeast of Gran Tarajal. A merchant ship sailing in the area was requested to stand by the boat until the Salvamar Izar could arrive, due to the dangerous sea conditions and poor visibility.
Challenging Weather Hampers Efforts
The operation was conducted in extremely difficult circumstances. Sources from Salvamento Marítimo highlighted that winds were gusting up to 39 knots, with waves reaching five to six metres high. These severe conditions significantly complicated the rescue mission.
Arrival Expected in Gran Tarajal
The Salvamar Izar is now transporting the 60 rescued individuals to the port of Gran Tarajal in the municipality of Tuineje. Emergency services have confirmed to EFE that their disembarkation is scheduled for 4:00 pm this afternoon.
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