Lebanese Army Command – Orientation Directorate issued the following statement:  On April 23, 2022, the navy forces of the army managed to date to rescue 48 people, including a dead girl, who were on board a boat that sank while trying to smuggle them illegally, off the Qalamoun Beach – North, as a result of water leakage due to the high waves and the overloaded boat. The naval forces, with the support of Air Force helicopters and a Cessna aircraft, worked to tow the boat and rescue most of those on board. First aid was given to them and the injured were taken to area hospitals, while the forces continue their operations by land, sea and air to rescue others who are still missing. The citizen (R.M.A.) was arrested on suspicion of involvement in the smuggling operation.
Investigations began under the supervision of the competent judiciary.