17 Oct Sar Operation Of Mv Serenity Ibtihaj Near Italian Coast
In the early hours of 27 May 2023, a routine passage to Algeciras took an unexpected turn for the crew of MV Serenity Ibtihaj as we received a distress relay call from the Italian Coast Guard.
What unfolded in the following hours was a remarkable display of international cooperation and the inherent desire to protect and preserve human life.
At 06:08 local time (03:08 UTC), we received a call and message from the Italian Coast Guard, urging us to interrupt the journey and assist a boat filled with individuals in distress. Recognising the gravity of the situation, I was immediately informed, and contacted the Designated Person Ashore (DPA). It became clear that the ship was obliged, as per international regulations, to comply with the Coast Guard’s instruction to ensure the safety of those in need.
At 06:12 local time (03:12 UTC), we changed course, following the orders from the Coast Guard, and proceeded towards the Search and Rescue (SAR) position provided: latitude 36-15.9N, longitude 016-30.9E. The crew was determined to reach the boat in distress as quickly as possible, aware that time was of the essence.
By 08:36 local time (05:36 UTC), the vessel arrived near the migrants’ boat, a mere 1 nautical mile away. Latitude 36-29.91N, longitude 016-51.75E. Shortly after, at 08:54 local time (05:54 UTC), the Italian Coast Guard boat CP320 arrived, establishing contact with the crew, and instructing us to stand by for further directions.
In the meantime, and in collaboration with our DPA and the head office, we undertook thorough preparations in the event of receiving and accommodating migrants onboard our cargo vessel. Despite the inherent challenges, we swiftly identified a suitable area for accommodation and established secure arrangements for their embarkation. We also organised procedures for the identification, registration and provision of essential supplies, including food and hygiene items, for their short transit to the Italian coastline. Safety is our top priority, and we carefully planned control measures and medical treatment protocols, as necessary.
A sense of anticipation and urgency filled the air as we received another phone call at 09:15 local time (06:15 UTC). The Italian Coast Guard informed us that there were approximately 200–600 persons on the migrants’ boat and requested the vessel to stand by until the arrival of another larger rescue boat. It was clear that a collective effort was underway to ensure the safety and well-being of these individuals.
Finally, at 10:06 local time (07:06 UTC), the Coast Guard boat CP308 arrived at the scene. Skilled and dedicated, the Coast Guard personnel swiftly repaired the migrants’ boat engine, a crucial step towards bringing everyone to safety. The joint efforts of the crew and the Coast Guard were making a tangible difference to the lives of those in distress.
By 11:18 local time (08:18 UTC), we received a message from the Coast Guard, announcing that the migrants’ boat engine was now operational. We were requested to follow the convoy for approximately 1–2 hours until another larger rescue boat arrived to provide additional assistance.
Finally, at 13:36 local time (10:36 UTC), we received instructions from the Italian Coast Guard, marking the successful completion of the Search and Rescue operation. With permission granted to continue towards our intended destination, our crew found solace in the knowledge that they had been fully prepared to fulfil a vital role in saving lives and upholding the principles of compassion and humanitarianism.
Capt. Frankie Myo Aung, Master of MV Serenity Ibtihaj