Flowers laid at sea in memory of deadly Gozo tragedy

Flowers were laid at sea to mark the 67th anniversary since 24 people lost their lives when a luzzu sank off Hondoq ir-Rummien.

The deadly tragedy occurred on October 30, 1948, when a luzzu carrying 28 people capsized in stormy weather and rough seas shortly after it had disembarked from Marfa.

Only four people on board the stricken luzzu had survived, while the dead included two police officers, a woman, and two crew officials.

The tragedy remains the worst maritime disaster and deadliest tragedy since the Second World War.

The victims were remember in a poignant ceremony on the MV Gaudos ferry before Gozo minister Anton Refalo threw flowers at sea as a mark of respect.

Also present were parliamentary secretary Justyne Caruana, Ghajnsielem local councilors, UNESCO Ambassador Joe Vella Gauci, former Speaker Anton Tabone, Gozo Channel Chairman Joe Cordina, and other dignitaries.