Seven illegal immigrants arrived at Cape Greco by speed boat on Sunday around 10am.

Authorities detected the boat initially 11 nautical miles southeast of the headland.

The coast guard intercepted the vessel and escorted it to the Golden Coast fishing shelter in Protaras, arriving at 4.30pm. On board the boat were seven irregular male migrants.

Investigation brought up testimony against a 24-year-old boat operator who was arrested. The remaining six men were transferred to the Pournara reception centre.

Since May 9, a total of 22 boats carrying 529 illegal immigrants have arrived. In three cases, search and rescue missions were initiated by the authorities.