Post date: May 10, 2013 11:59:35 AM
The Italian coastguard rescues 181 migrants, including a newborn baby, who had run into trouble off the southern island of Lampedusa.
AT SEA OFF LAMPEDUSA ISLAND, ITALY (MAY 10, 2013) (COASTGUARD HANDOUT) - Italian coastguard officials helped some 181 migrants safely to shore on Lampedusa island on Friday (May 10) after their overcrowded vessel ran into trouble.
The migrants included women and a newborn baby. Most appeared to be of African origin.Close to 1,000 migrants have arrived on Italian shores in recent months, with more regular arrivals as weather conditions improve. Most are taken to holding centres.
Italy's coast is a common destination for migrants from north and sub-Saharan Africa.
Thousands have died during the risky voyage across the Mediterranean as a result of shipwreck, harsh conditions and a lack of food and water, say activists.