Six years sought over Formentera migrant boat

A young man faces a possible six-year prison sentence over claims that he steered a boat carrying 17 people to Formentera. The First Criminal Section of the Provincial Court of the Balearic Islands in Palma is due to hold a preliminary hearing at 12.45pm on Thursday. Prosecutors accuse him of an offence against the rights of foreign citizens.

The boat left the coast near Tipassa, Algeria, and reached Formentera on 20 April, according to the prosecution. The crossing lasted 18 hours. It ran out of fuel and drifted until Salvamento Marítimo, Spain’s maritime rescue service, rescued those aboard.

Prosecutors allege that the defendant took on duties including directing and steering the boat, as well as refuelling it during the journey. Two passengers told prosecutors they had each paid about €3,700 for the migration trip, although the prosecution does not say who received the money.

Topics: Court cases · Sea rescue · Migration · Politics

Source: Europa Press / Mallorca.com