The armed forces were yesterday involved in a casualty evacuation after a Russian crew member was injured on board a container ship, 35 nautical miles north west off Valletta.

The army was informed at about 2 p.m. that a 45-year-old man on board the Valletta-registered bulk carrier Imandra was injured in the eye as he was carrying out a welding operation.

A helicopter flew to the scene and winched the injured man on board, despite force seven winds. He was flown to St Luke's Hospital where his condition was found to be life-threatening.

The one-hour rescue mission involved Captain Anthony Zammit, winch operator Christian Zammit, Lance Bombardier Neville Cilia and Gunner Judas Dimech.

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