The Armed Forces of Malta evacuated six Africans from a dinghy some 25 nautical miles south of Dingli, however the vessel continued on its way with a further 61 people on board.

An Armed Forces of Malta King Air B200 Aircraft out on patrol, informed the Operation Centre in Luqa that a green dinghy with persons on board was sighted 23.5nm south of Dingli. The dinghy was making way on its own steam heading North.

An Inshore Patrol Vessel from the Maritime Squadron (P23) was dispatched to the area to see whether those aboard needed assistance. After arriving in the area, P23 confirmed that there were 66 persons on board and that migrants required no assistance. P23 closely monitored the dinghy as it continued moving unassisted in a northerly direction.

Subsequently, a Protector Class Patrol Boat (P51) left Haywharf Base and took over the monitoring duties from P23. At around 7pm, the patrol skipper assessed that six migrants might require medical assistance and informed the ops room, according to standard procedure.

The Operations Centre at Luqa Barracks diverted a Search and Rescue Launch (Melita I) to the area to carry out the medical evacuation.

At 10pm Melita 1 left the area with the 6 persons on board and arrived at Hay Wharf Base at 11.40pm. The dinghy with 61 migrants proceeded unassisted in a northerly direction and the P51 shadowed the vessel to ensure safe passage. Once the dinghy entered Italian Search and rescue region, the operation was handed over to the Italian Authorities. Countries do not have the right to force people to leave a vessel, or to divert course according to international law.