drowning

Italian authorities are reporting the disappearance of 20 migrants after a small boat carrying 27 passengers capsized in rough seas approximately 20 miles off the Libyan coast. Seven survivors, who were rescued near the Italian island of Lampedusa, confirmed the tragic loss.

The six-meter vessel departed from Zuwara, Libya, late Monday night but began to take on water after five hours, tipping over under the pressure of high waves.

Panic ensued, causing 20 passengers, including five women and three children, to fall into the sea. Survivors described treacherous conditions, with rough seas and strong winds hampering their efforts to stay afloat.

An Italian patrol boat discovered the survivors Tuesday evening. Initially, authorities believed the vessel had capsized closer to Lampedusa, prompting overnight search-and-rescue operations. However, rescue efforts have since been suspended, and both Libyan and Maltese authorities have been notified.

Among the survivors was an eight-year-old Syrian boy, who, along with others, was transported to Porto Empedocle in Sicily for medical care.