Turkish Coast Guard teams responded to a distress call on May 28 at 09:05 in the waters off the Karaburun district, where a rubber boat carrying irregular migrants had a motor failure and was drifting. The boat was carrying 18 children and 37 irregular migrants, who were rescued by the Coast Guard ship (TCSG-109) that was dispatched to the scene.
Later that same day at 22:05, a moving rubber boat spotted by the Coast Guard boat (TCSG-907) off the coast of Dikili was intercepted. 12 irregular migrants, including 6 children, who were attempting to leave the country through illegal means, were apprehended by the authorities.
After being brought ashore, a total of 49 irregular migrants, including 24 children, received health checks and were processed before being handed over to the Provincial Directorate of Immigration Administration for deportation. The Coast Guard’s swift response and successful rescue operations have prevented potential tragedies at sea and led to the apprehension of individuals attempting to migrate irregularly.
These incidents highlight the ongoing issue of irregular migration in the region and the risks faced by those attempting to cross borders through dangerous means. The Coast Guard’s efforts to rescue those in distress and apprehend individuals involved in illegal activities play a crucial role in maintaining security and safety in the region’s waters.
The rescued migrants’ journey is a stark reminder of the challenges and dangers faced by individuals seeking better opportunities in other countries and the importance of safe and legal migration channels. The authorities’ commitment to preventing irregular migration and protecting the lives of those at sea is evident in their prompt response to distress calls and successful rescue operations.
As the global migration crisis continues to pose challenges, cooperation between countries, and coordinated efforts by law enforcement agencies are essential in addressing the root causes of irregular migration and ensuring the safety and well-being of migrants on their journeys. The Turkish Coast Guard’s vigilance and dedication to protecting lives at sea demonstrate the importance of maritime security in addressing the complex issue of irregular migration.
