IERAPETRA , Greece, Nov. 26 (UPI) -- A stricken freighter ship carrying about 700 migrants was on its way to the Greek island of Crete Wednesday, towed by a Greek Navy ship.
The 254-foot vessel Baris reported engine failure Tuesday as it carried the refugees, believed to be mainly of Syrian and Afghan citizenship, to Europe. Four merchant ships, military helicopters and the navy frigate were sent to rescue the ship, which is registered in the Pacific nation of Kiribati. The navy ship is presently towing the Baris through rough water and is expected to arrive in the Cretan port city of Ierapetra Wednesday evening or early Thursday.