The Armed Forces of Malta's Maritime Squadron Detachment currently operating out of the Greek island of Lesvos has been involved in a rescue operation yesterday 30 October 2014.

While on routine patrol, the crew of the Fast Interceptor Craft (FIC) P02 was informed that a small vessel was spotted via a Thermo Visual Vehicle in the area. The P02 crew immediately set course for the location and quickly sighted a dinghy with 9 persons on board in inclement weather conditions.

The 8 men and one female were taken to safety and handed over to the Greek Authorities.

The AFM's Maritime Squadron personnel have been patrolling the waters around Lesvos since the beginning of August as part of the FRONTEX Joint Operation Poseidon Sea. They have responded to numerous incidents during this period, many of which have resulted in persons being rescued after finding themselves in difficulty while attempting to cross the maritime border between Turkey and Greece in an irregular manner.

The Maltese Detachment consists of 1 officer and 7 enlisted men who are rotated on a monthly basis. The Boomeranger FIC P02 is supported in addition by the deployment of two AFM vehicles.