Greek authorities launched a rescue mission comprised of five ships to the rescue of a Kiribati-flagged freighter, Baris, carrying hundreds of immigrants illegally trying to enter Europe. The 77-meter-long cargo freighter found itself 30 nautical miles southeast of Crete after suffering from engine failure on Tuesday. There is no danger of the ship sinking but the strong winds are making the rescue operation difficult.

Four merchant ships and a Greek navy frigate are in the area in the hope of towing the ship to safety. There are 500 to 700 people on the freighter but their nationalities and port of departure is still unknown.

Greek is a major entry point for refugees trying to gain access to Europe from war-torn countries such as Syria and Libya.