Working Conditions Aboard the Elisa

On May 27, 2017, a tragic maritime incident unfolded approximately 18 miles off the coast of Mazara del Vallo, Sicily, when the tanker 'Gaz Century' collided with the Tunisian fishing vessel 'Hatem Kousai', measuring 20 meters in length. The collision occurred around 8 a.m. and resulted in the sinking of the fishing vessel in waters reaching depths of 37 meters. Rescue operations were executed swiftly, with four crew members from 'Hatem Kousai' successfully saved and brought aboard the 'Gaz Century'. However, the search for the missing fishermen proved grim, as Faisel Laghdifi was discovered deceased in the water later that afternoon. The bodies of two additional crew members, Chokri Laghdifi and Yassine Laghdifi, were recovered from the wreckage off Tre Fontane, near Campobello di Mazara, on May 29 by divers from Palermo's fire rescue team. Recovery efforts faced significant challenges due to strong currents in the area, complicating the divers' operations. The Tunisian embassy in Rome and its consulate in Palermo provided vital assistance for the survivors and helped facilitate the repatriation of the deceased. The search and rescue operation, directed by the Mazara del Vallo Coast Guard, was officially concluded once all bodies were retrieved. Following this heart-wrenching event, the 'Gaz Century' anchored off Malta on May 29, reflecting on the tragic loss that marked this day at sea.