Italy to Impose Heavy Fines on Pilots Searching for Migrant Boats

Italy is set to impose fines of up to €10,000 on pilots of aircraft that search for migrant boats in distress. The new decree aims to block irregular arrivals and fraud within the migrant visa system, making it difficult for charities to operate and imposing penalties on fraudulent visa applications.

The Italian government will introduce fines of up to €10,000 for pilots conducting sea searches for migrant boats, according to a draft decree.

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's right-wing administration is committed to halting irregular arrivals, including partnerships with African governments and the establishment of migrant centers in Albania. The decree restricts charity operations by limiting rescues, seizing ships, and enforcing detours.

The new regulation mandates that aircraft involved in search and rescue missions notify authorities and comply with orders, with non-compliance resulting in impoundment and potential confiscation. Additionally, tighter controls on the migrant visa system aim to prevent fraud.

(With inputs from agencies.)