CONCERNS are mounting over the well-being of 400 migrants who were left stranded in the Mediterranean Sea, reports NBC News.
According to a volunteer organisation, the captain deserted the vessel, leaving it vulnerable to capsizing.
The ship was located within the search-and-rescue zone jointly monitored by Malta and Italy, as per Alarm Phone, a non-profit organisation that responds to distress calls from migrant vessels.
"A woman reported the seriousness of the conditions on board. The captain left, and there is nobody who can steer the boat," it said.
"The 400 people cannot reach safety on their own, authorities need to urgently send rescue!"
According to Alarm Phone, a number of individuals, including a child, a pregnant woman, and a person with a physical disability, needed medical attention.
The situation on board was chaotic, with people in a state of panic.
The lower deck was flooded, and some migrants even jumped into the water out of fear that the vessel would capsize.
source:SchedNet