MOSCOW, December 30 (Sputnik) — A ship carrying illegal migrants off the Greek island on Corfu has sent a signal because of suspected armed people on board, Reuters reports citing Greek state TV.
Greek shipping ministry has confirmed that SOS signal was sent by Moldovan-flagged vessel "Blue Sky M" carrying 600 migrants on board. The vessel is suspected to have suffered engine failure.
Frigate Navarino and Sikorski S-70 helicopter were sent to the spot.
The incident comes two days after Italian-flagged ferry with 478 people on board, which was traveling from Greece to Italy, caught fire in the same area, leading to a huge rescue operation by Italian and Greek coast guard and military officials. At least 10 people died in that incident, while 419 were saved.
