PRESS RELEASE BY THE GOVERNMENT OF MALTA

The Maltese authorities have provided assistance from the outset in relation to the situation aboard the unflagged vessel ‘Conscience’.

Malta offered immediate assistance with fire-fighting measures when the vessel issued an emergency call, and an AFM patrol boat was also deployed to assist the vessel and crew. Once the crew and passengers on board were confirmed safe, they were offered to board a tugboat to be taken safely to land. The crew members and passengers refused the offer. 

Moreover, today the crew and people on board were again offered rescue, which was refused.

The authorities also ensured that the crew received all necessary support, including essential supplies and humanitarian assistance.

Additionally, Malta is offering to send a marine surveyor on board to assess the reported damage sustained by the vessel, and, according to the relevant findings, to assist in any emergency repairs necessary to enable the vessel to sail to its intended destination. The vessel’s captain has refused to allow the surveyor to board the vessel.