Malta Mourns: Local Diver Dies in Mediterranean Rescue Mission

In the quiet Maltese town of Marsaxlokk, the sun rose today to find a community in mourning. The body of local diver, Joseph Azzopardi, was recovered yesterday, just off the coast of Libya, where he had been part of a search and rescue mission for two missing Italian tourists.

From Fishing Boats to Rescue Missions

Joseph, a 35-year-old father of two, was no stranger to the sea. Born and raised in Marsaxlokk, he had spent his life on or around the water. From helping his father on their family fishing boat to becoming a certified diver, the sea was more than just a livelihood to him – it was his passion.

It was this passion that led him to join the crew of the Responder, a rescue vessel operated by the Malta-based charity, Migrant Offshore Aid Station (MOAS). The organization, founded in 2014, has been at the forefront of search and rescue operations in the Mediterranean, saving thousands of lives.

Search for the Missing Italians

On Monday, the Responder set sail from Malta’s Grand Harbour, responding to a distress call from the Italian coastguard. Two Italians, a man and a woman, had gone missing while swimming off the coast of Libya. Despite the challenging conditions, the crew of the Responder, including Joseph, were determined to find them.

The search took them to the waters off the Libyan coast, an area known for its treacherous currents and unpredictable weather. Despite the risks, the crew pressed on, guided by the hope of finding the missing tourists alive.

A Tragic Turn

On Tuesday, as the search entered its second day, tragedy struck. A wave crashed over the bow of the Responder, sweeping Joseph overboard. Despite the immediate efforts of his crewmates, Joseph could not be found. The search for him continued throughout the night, but it was not until Wednesday morning that his body was recovered.

The news of Joseph’s death has through Malta. Flags fly at half-mast in Marsaxlokk, and tributes pour in from across the island. Prime Minister Robert Abela has expressed his condolences, describing Joseph as a “hero who gave his life in the service of others”.

Joseph’s family has been left devastated by his loss. His wife, Maria, spoke of her pride in her husband’s bravery, but also of her heartache at his loss. “He was a good man,” she said, “He always wanted to help people.”

MOAS: Committed to Saving Lives

Despite the tragedy, MOAS remains committed to its mission. “We are deeply saddened by the loss of Joseph,” said MOAS founder, Christopher Catrambone. “But we will not let this deter us from our work. We will continue to search for those in need, in memory of Joseph and all those who have lost their lives in the Mediterranean.”

The Responder has returned to Malta, where it will undergo repairs before setting out again. The crew, meanwhile, has been given time to grieve and recover from their ordeal.

In Marsaxlokk, preparations are underway for Joseph’s funeral. The community, united in their grief, has come together to support his family. As one local resident put it, “Joseph was one of our own. He gave his life trying to save others. We will never forget him.”