Rapid Deployment Team returns from Frontex Mission

A specialized team from the Armed Forces of Malta Maritime Squadron just got back from 'Joint Operation Sea 2013' under the auspices of Frontex.

The mission was spread over two months (October - November) and took place in Greek Territorial waters as part of European effort to stem illegal migration on Europe's South-Eastern Borders.

Operating with other European forces, two crews of eight men each operated within the designated area mostly during darkness.  A crew change took place halfway through the deployment, giving the opportunity to a fresh group of Maltese personnel to operate in an unfamiliar theatre of operations.

The primary mission was to conduct Border Control patrols in Greek territorial seas with a view to combating illegal immigration as well as preventing and intercepting trans-border criminal activities.

The mission started on 4 October with the deployment by commercial ferry of three personnel and the designated assets. A fast Interceptor Rigid Hull Inflatable Dinghy (P02), and two supporting vehicles were deployed for this mission.

The AFM contingent was stationed in Molivos Harbour in the Northern part of Lesvos island which has seen a significant number of migrant incidents over the past months.  With the Turkish border just five nautical miles across the water from Molivos, numerous migrants attempt the still-perilous voyage towards Europe on small craft.

In light of the recent developments in Syria, this border crossing point has come under renewed pressure, testing the resources and ability of law enforcement personnel operating in the area. The Rapid Deployment Personnel conducted Border Control Patrols in collaboration with the Hellenic Coast Guard almost every day.

Approximately 36km of Greek coast line was continuously patrolled, mostly during the high-risk hours of darkness with a view to providing situational awareness to the Greek auhtorities. Various methods of surveillance were used in order to detect potential violations including radar and thermal imaging cameras.

Besides Border Control Patrols the Maltese personnel were also prepared to assist in other tasks as required such as providing assistance in search and rescue operations.