Commercial vessels operating near Italy’s coastline pulled 32 migrants from the water and recovered two bodies during Easter weekend after their boat capsized while attempting the dangerous journey from Libya to Europe, according to rescue organizations.
The survivors and victims were handed over to Italian coast guard officials and transported to Lampedusa island, rescue groups Mediterranea Saving Humans and Sea-Watch reported.
Italy’s interior ministry declined to comment on the incident, while the Italian Coast Guard has not yet responded to inquiries. Easter Sunday is observed as a significant religious holiday throughout Italy.
According to statements from those rescued, the vessel initially carried 105 people before 71 went missing during the crossing, the humanitarian organizations stated.
Footage released by Sea-Watch captured approximately twelve individuals holding onto an overturned orange vessel as a commercial ship approached for rescue operations.
Harsh weather conditions have created turbulent seas across the Mediterranean region this year, reducing departure attempts from North African shores while creating dangerous situations for those who do attempt the crossing.
According to the International Organization for Migration (IOM), no fewer than 683 people have perished in the central Mediterranean during 2024, representing one of the deadliest periods since 2014.
