Italian officials have detained NGO rescue vessels frequently over the past weeks, leading to fears of increased fatalities on migration routes. The Sea-Watch vessel Aurora was detained for 20 days after rescuing approximately 70 people, who faced health risks. Detentions began to escalate after strict regulations on civil sea rescues were imposed in 2023. The decision to bring rescued individuals to Lampedusa, rather than the directed Pozzallo port, was a significant factor in these detentions, which rights groups are increasingly concerned about.
The NGO Sea-Watch's vessel, Aurora, was detained in Lampedusa for 20 days after rescuing about 70 people suffering from fuel burns, seasickness, and dehydration.
Karla Primc, head of operations on the Aurora, stated, 'This decision is politically motivated; those who rescue are punished,' reflecting concerns over escalating crackdowns.
Sea-Watch faced detentions linked to decisions made during rescue operations, particularly the choice to take rescued individuals to Lampedusa rather than farther ports.
Rights groups have raised alarms over an increase in detentions of rescue vessels since the Italian government enforced stricter regulations on sea rescues in 2023.
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