A tragedy at sea from which boat owners should draw lessons

I cannot understand how it is possible that a fishing boat can get lost when I know that when I go out with my boat I contact Valletta Port informing them that I am sailing out and give them my destination. I then receive confirmation from Valletta Port, which is the authority that traces every boat on the radar screen. Thus, they should know the exact whereabouts of every boat within a large distance from Malta.

Also, every boat should be equipped with life savers for every person on board. This will ensure that all people on board have a chance of being saved. Another important factor which many boat owners neglect is the inflatable life raft on board, which contains all the necessary items to assist people whose boat is in danger of sinking. Life rafts should be examined every two years.

To me this tragedy remains a mystery. I hope it would teach a lesson to all boat owners to do all that needs to be done for the sake of their safety and for the safety of those on board.