The French light frigate “Commandant Bouan” joining operation SOPHIA
French ships handover in EUNAVFOR MED area of operations
Last 6 February the French light frigate “Commandant Ducuing” ended her participation in EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia after a one-month deployment. She contributed to enhance maritime security in the region, in accordance with the UNSCR 2292 (2016), to stop the weapons flows in the high seas off the coast of Libya. The French ship Ducuing patrolled and enhanced the understanding of the pattern of life of the vessels in the area, gathering needed piece of information for the area, by conducting several friendly approaches on local fishing boats and merchant vessels.
Operation SOPHIA Force Commander wishes a safe trip back home after an intense period in the force, and welcomes to the French vessel “Commandant Bouan”, whom took over Commandant Ducuing’s duties.
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 103-suspected smugglers and traffickers have been prosecuted by the Italian authorities and 387 boats were removed from the criminal organization availability. Nonetheless, as the EU contribution to the UN arms embargo, the operation carried on 375 events in accordance with the UNSCR 2292 (2016).