Greek authorities rescued 59 migrants in a coordinated maritime operation south of Crete early Easter Monday.

The rescue took place approximately 32 nautical miles south of the city of Heraklion, where a vessel flying the Panamanian flag was found in distress.

The operation was carried out under difficult conditions, with winds reaching 4 to 5 on the Beaufort scale. Greek authorities were assisted by a French naval vessel and an aircraft from Frontex, the European Union’s border agency.

All 59 migrants on board were safely located and secured during the operation.

Following the rescue, the migrants remained aboard the vessel and were expected to disembark at the port on the island later that night, with arrival in Heraklion anticipated after midnight.

The latest incident follows another arrival earlier the same day, when a separate group of migrants was found on a beach in southern Crete.

After disembarkation, officials will proceed with standard procedures, including registration and the provision of care for the rescued individuals, in line with reception protocols.