The LÉ NIAMH, Irish Navy’s latest contribution to the search and rescue efforts in the Mediterranean, saved 98 migrants North West of Libya on July 19.
In it’s first operation since arriving in the area of operations on Saturday, the 18th of July, a total of 98 migrants (78 Male, 18 Female, and 2 children) were rescued from a rubber craft, 76 Nautical Miles north-west of Tripoli.
The LÉ NIAMH was immediately re-tasked by the Italian Marine Rescue Coordination Centre to another operation 58 Nautical Miles north-west of Tripoli. It was subsequently joined by the Italian patrol vessel the ‘ITS SIRIO’ who took an estimated 250 people on board.
The LÉ NIAMH handed over the 98 rescued persons from the first operation to the ‘ITS SIRIO’ and is awaiting direction from the Italian Maritime Rescue Co-Ordination Centre for next tasking.
The LÉ NIAMH departed Ireland on Friday 10th of July. The vessel has a crew of fifty-seven personnel, including two Army medics and is commanded by Lieutenant Commander Danial Wall.
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Image: Irish Defence Forces