Man transporting illegal migrants arrested

Police on Wednesday arrested a 48-year-old man for assisting the arrival illegal immigrants into the Republic.

According to police statement, shortly before 1pm, a boat approximately seven meters long was spotted 13.5 nautical miles southeast of Cape Greco.

Bad weather conditions prevailed and the boat, carrying 25 people, was in bad condition and sank while being towed.

The boat’s occupants were brought ashore to the Paralimni fishing shelter and identified as 24 men and an unaccompanied minor.

The occupants were subsequently transferred to the Pournara reception centre.

Investigations turned up evidence against a 48-year-old man, allegedly the boat operator, who was arrested and taken into custody.