The Greek Tanker BYZANTION of TSAKOS Group, rescued 230 immigrants off Libya

On 14th November 2014, the Greek Tanker Byzantion of the Tsakos Group, carried out, within a few hours, two rescue operations in the Mediterranean Sea, off the Libyan coast, rescuing a total of 230 (141 on the first and 89 on the second case) immigrants whose lives were at risk.

The 37,275 dwt Product Tanker, Byzantion, with a 24-member crew, while en route from La Skhirra/Tunisia to Elefsis/Greece, was contacted by the Rome Maritime Rescue Co-ordination (MRCC) and was informed that two small boats were in danger off the Libyan coast. The ship sailed directly to the two locations and safely picked up a total of 230 immigrants, all reported in apparent good health.

The Master and the crew members extended their fullest assistance and care to the immigrants and provided food and water and other necessities. No emergency medical assistance was necessary. M/T Byzantion then proceeded to Messina, Italy where all the immigrants were safely disembarked on 15 November 2014.

The vessel is under the Technical Management of Tsakos Columbia Shipmanagement (“TCM”) S.A., Athens, which extended their warmest congratulations to the Master, to his officers and crew for their personal dedication and professionalism in rendering assistance to people in distress.

It should be noted that, since August 2014, three (3) Tsakos group fleet vessels (M/T PROTEAS, M/T ARION, M/T BYZANTION) have carried out rescue operations in the sea area off Libya, rescuing more than 600 people.
Source: Tsakos Group