36 Afghans rescued from drifting boat off Dutch coast
Thirty-six Afghan men rescued from a motorless boat off the Zeeland coast are being checked by Dutch authorities. Two Sudanese men aboard have been arrested on suspicion of people-smuggling.
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A group of 36 Afghan men rescued from a drifting inflatable boat off the Zeeland coast is being held at a Royal Netherlands Marechaussee base in Hoogerheide while their identities are checked and officials assess whether they want to claim asylum, ANP reports.
Two Sudanese men who were also aboard were arrested on suspicion of people-smuggling. The boat had no engine and was towed to Cadzand, where those on board were brought ashore.
A Marechaussee spokesperson said the authorities did not know where the boat had come from or where it was headed. The Afghan men could be transferred to the asylum application centre in Ter Apel if they seek asylum. If they have no grounds to remain, they may be asked to leave, the spokesperson said.
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