Seventy-three illegal immigrants, including women and children, landed at Mgarr, Gozo yesterday evening, police said.

The Armed Forces said the boat they were on was spotted at about 5 p.m. off Gozo and eventually entered port at about 6.30 p.m.

The police said the immigrants' first contact was made with a fishing boat. They initially made for Mgarr ix-Xini, were then seen heading for Comino, before finally making their way into Mgarr harbour.

An AFM patrol boat and rescue boat were on the scene in case of need, and police and soldiers were waiting for the immigrants when they came ashore.

They were given medical assistance but there were no reports of any being taken to hospital.

Last night they were being transferred to the police depot in Floriana for screening. No nationalities were given.

Ten days ago, 66 immigrants had to be rescued after their boat began taking in water.

More than 1,500 illegal immigrants have landed in Malta so far this year in 17 different trips. Many of them have been repatriated.

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