Counter-piracy Force Assists Disabled Vessel
Passenger dhow with 104 persons aboard assisted by EUNAFOR warships
The dhow put out a distress signal reporting she was drifting at sea without propulsion. NATO warship, ITS Grecale was the closest ship and gave immediate assistance, later joined by EUNAVFOR warship, FGS Berlin which provided much needed medical support, together with food and 500 litres of water.
Despite FGS Berlin engineers' overnight effort, the damaged engine could not be restarted. The following day, ESPS Patino took over the rescue mission and gave reassurance, medical assistance and food to the worried passengers. Subsequently Patino was able to tow the dhow to safety.
Speaking about the rescue mission, EU Force Commander, Rear Admiral Jorge Manso said: 'The warship crews have worked extremely hard, in difficult conditions to provide life-saving assistance to the crew and passengers from the stricken dhow. I am extremely proud of their efforts.