Overnight search efforts for migrants missing at sea after a boat capsized off Cyprus have yielded no results, as rescue operations continue with full intensity.
Rescue teams are searching for at least 11 people still missing in Mediterranean waters after the vessel carrying Syrian migrants capsized approximately 45 kilometres from Cape Greco.
Two survivors and seven bodies were recovered on Monday. Although information about the number of passengers remains unclear, authorities believe 20 or 21 people were aboard the vessel when it capsized.
The non-governmental organisation “Alarm Phone,” citing relatives awaiting migrants in Cyprus, had reported a boat carrying 23 migrants from Tripoli whose signal was lost in the area where the shipwreck occurred.
However, the two Syrian survivors rescued on Monday stated their boat had departed from Tartus, Syria.
Authorities said the survivors were suffering from psychological distress due to hypothermia and will be interviewed today to obtain clearer information.
The Search and Rescue Coordination Centre confirmed that efforts to locate survivors will continue unabated. An official told philenews that due to sea temperatures, “a person could survive up to 48 hours in the water,” making today’s search efforts critical.
Operations continued throughout the night with two Naval Command vessels, three helicopters, a drone, and thermal cameras, but without success.
Defence and Justice ministers yesterday rejected claims made by NGOs about attempted pushbacks of migrants, emphasising that authorities respect international law and approach rescue operations with humanitarian principles.
Maritime authorities have expanded the search area and are coordinating with nearby vessels to assist in the ongoing rescue operation.
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