Immigrant dies on floating tyre

August 16, 2009  •  Andalucia  •  0 Comments

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A WOMAN has died trying to navigate the perilous Mediterranean in just a rubber tyre.

It was the first time this unconventional mode of transport has led to a confirmed death, and has again highlighted the huge risks illegal immigrants are prepared to take to reach Spain.

The rubber tyre was spotted floating 200 metres from La Fontanilla beach in Marbella while the body had decomposed to such an extent that it was missing several limbs.

The providers of these giant rubber rings are reportedly the Mafia gangs who co-ordinate the trafficking of immigrants between Northern Africa and the Spanish coast.

“This is a growing method employed by the Mafia. They drop the immigrant-filled tyres into the sea from boats at specific points so that the current can carry them up to the shore,” said a Malaga police spokesman.

“The immigrants believe they will reach the coast because they can see land but they are not familiar with the treacherous currents of the Mediterranean.

“Although they are just 300 to 400 metres from the Marbella beaches, the current can get hold of them and drag them in the opposite direction.”

The gangs in charge of immigrant trafficking offer desperate folk hoping to enter Spain various ways to traverse the sea depending on how much money they have.

“Although they are just 300 to 400 metres from the Marbella beaches, the current can get hold of them and drag them in the opposite direction.”

Ranging from wooden boats to wet seats and surf boards the vulnerable immigrants are at the mercy of these gangs.

Meanwhile, the women’s remains were taken to the Institute of Legal Medicine where an autopsy was undertaken aiming to determine her name, age and cause of death.

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