23 March 2006

NATO uncovers immigrant smuggling in Mediterranean News 25/03/2006 - JFC Naples Active Endeavour Ships Assist in Illegal Immigration Operation Background Operation Active Endeavour NATO ships discovered the illegal transfer of immigrants in the Mediterranean Sea, on 23 March. The Hellenic Coast Guard was informed and intercepted the offending vessel. While conducting counter-terrorist patrols in the Mediterranean , as part of Operation Active Endeavour, NATO ships spotted suspicious movement on the M/V Crystal at sea and began tracking the vessel. Hellenic Coast Guard Units then intercepted the Crystal while approaching the coast of Greece . Greek authorities boarded the vessel and subsequently arrested the Captain, crew, and 126 illegal immigrants. Referring to the Captain and crew, Vice Admiral Roberto Cesaretti, Commander of NATO Maritime Forces in the Mediterranean, said: “I am delighted we have been able to assist the Greek authorities in bringing criminals to justice”. Securing the Mediterranean Active Endeavour began in 2001 to counter terrorist activity in the Mediterranean in response to the September 11 attacks against the United States , and involves monitoring shipping and providing escorts for non-military vessels. Vice Admiral Cesaretti added that this sends “a message for the terrorists here: we are looking for you... there will be no place to hide”.