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Aid Group Says Libyan-Linked Vessels Fired on a Migrant Rescue Ship in the Mediterranean
Sea-Watch said the crew sent mayday calls after armed vessels fired live ammunition and ordered the ship to stop, with about 90 migrants aboard.
On Monday, armed vessels linked to the Libyan coast guard fired live ammunition at Sea-Watch 5, a German NGO rescue ship, shortly after it saved 90 migrants in the Mediterranean Sea.
Italy and the European Union have long supported the Libyan coast guard with equipment and training, an arrangement critics say has fueled recurring confrontations between Libyan patrols and rescue organizations.
Sea-Watch spokesperson Julia Winkler said approaching vessels fired a single shot followed by 10 to 15 rounds, then ordered the crew to return to Libya, noting the crew feared for their lives.
Italian coast guard spokesperson Roberto Arrigo confirmed authorities have been informed of the security incident, as the Sea-Watch 5 safely departed toward the Italian port of Brindisi.
Similar shootings have occurred previously, including an August incident involving the Ocean Viking, yet European agencies have faced criticism for denying access to records regarding the Libyan coast guard's patrol operations.
According to the relief organization, the rescue ship "Sea-Watch 5" was attacked by the Libyan coast guard with sharp ammunition. On board are 90 rescued from sea distress and 30 crew members.