Britain Offers Warship To Tackle People Smugglers In Mediterranean
The government said it was offering the ship to board, seize and destroy vessels in international waters off the coast of Libya, where smugglers have taken advantage of political turmoil to ship thousands of illegal migrants to Europe.
British Royal Navy ships have been involved in rescuing migrants but the government said it wanted to do more.
“The Royal Navy has rescued thousands of people from peril but we’ve been clear we have to tackle the gangs behind this, which is why it’s important the mission moves to the next phase,” said Defence Secretary Michael Fallon in a statement.
“We will not stand by and let this smuggling trade escalate; we will confront this criminal activity which risks the lives of innocent people every day.”
Fallon said the ship, HMS Richmond, was ready to deploy as soon as it was given approval by the EU.
(Reporting by Kylie MacLellan and William James; Editing by Alison Williams)
Copyright 2015 Thomson Reuters. Click here for Restrictions
Shipping News You Would Like:
Disclaimer :
The information contained in this website is for general information purposes only. While we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.
In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from loss of data or profits arising out of, or in connection with, the use of this website.
Do you have info to share with us ? Suggest a correction
Latest Shipping News You Would Like:
Shipfinex Announces Its First Tokenization Customer, TMC Shipping
U.S Navy To Begin Testing SEALs & Special Warfare Troops For Steroids And Other Drugs
U.S Navy To Commission Future Littoral Combat Ship USS Augusta In Eastport, Maine
Russia-China Trade Imbalance Leads To 150,000 Empty Containers Piling Up In Russia
U.S Navy Accuses Iranian Vessels Of Harassing Its Marine Attack Helicopter With Lasers
Get the Latest Maritime News Delivered to Your Inbox!
Our free, fast, and fun newsletter on the global maritime industry, delivered everyday.