More than 4,000 Migrants Rescued Off Italy’s Coast
Published at
iStock/Thinkstock(ROME) — Rescue workers saved more than 4,000 migrants off the coast of Italy this weekend as thousands attempted to cross the Mediterranean.
At least six people died in the seas off the southern coast when a small fishing boat carrying close to 400 people sank. Italian workers discovered the individuals just one day after crews pulled another 19 bodies from a capsized ship.
Libyan rescue workers also searched for the bodies of at least 170 drowned off their country’s shores.
Many of those taking the dangerous trip are fleeing conflict in the Middle East and North Africa.
Cecilia Malmström, the European Union’s Home Affairs Commissioner, said she was “appalled” by reports of the drownings and will meet with the Italian government later this week to discuss preventative measures.
“The European Commission remains committed to help Italy in its efforts,” Malmström said in a statement. “…I also reiterate my call to Member States to provide assistance to Mediterranean countries facing increased migratory and asylum pressure, in particular by resettling people from refugees’ camps outside the EU.”
Follow @ABCNewsRadio
Copyright 2014 ABC News Radio