A boat carrying 120 migrants has arrived in Portopalo, Siracusa after crossing waters which fall under Malta's search and rescue jurisdiction.

Italian media reported that the boat was spotted early yesterday and the Armed Forces of Malta monitored it, using two aircraft. The boat was 140 miles south-east of Malta.

Boats have right of passage through Maltese waters and rescue is only attempted if passengers are in distress. 

By yesterday evening, the boat was 48 miles south of Capopassero and coordination of the operation was transferred to the Italian authorities.

The migrants were picked up by Coast Guard launches after the boat's engine failed.

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