At least 32 irregular migrants rescued off Turkish coasts

The Turkish Coast Guard on Monday rescued some 32 irregular migrants off the southern and southwestern coast of Turkey.

In a statement, the coast guard said 16 migrants were rescued off the Anamur district of southern Mersin after they called for help as their boat started taking on water.

It said two suspected human smugglers were also detained.

Separately, 16 more irregular migrants were rescued off the coast of Dalaman district in southwestern Mugla province.

Acting upon information that a rubber boat carrying irregular migrants was swept away due to engine failure, coast guard teams rescued the migrants and brought them ashore.

After routine checks, the irregular migrants were taken to the provincial migration authority.

Turkey has been a key transit point for asylum seekers aiming to cross into Europe to start new lives, especially those fleeing war and persecution.

Turkey hosts nearly 4 million refugees, more than any other country in the world.