Last week, our crew rescued 25 people from a leaking inflatable boat off the coast of Libya. Shortly afterward, the so-called Libyan Coast Guard appeared. We most likely prevented an illegal pushback in violation of international law.

After arriving in Lampedusa, our rescue vessel was once again detained by the Italian authorities. The reason given: our refusal to communicate with the so-called Libyan Coast Guard during the rescue operation.

Like many NGOs in the Justice Fleet, we do not communicate with Libya. Libya violates human rights and cannot be considered a place of safety.

This time, our rescue vessel, the TROTAMAR III, has been detained for 45 days and fined €10,000. We have appealed this decision through legal channels.

In addition to the fact that the TROTAMAR III may be unable to assist people fleeing danger for up to 45 days, we are now facing substantial legal costs.

Please help us cover these legal expenses. You can donate on the platform Betterplace or purchase merchandise from our solidarity shop.