Two pregnant women and a three year old boy were amongst 42 illegal immigrants rescued off the coast of Almeria on Saturday.
The boat, an inflatable dinghy, was first spotted by a passing merchant vessel and the authorities were duly informed. However, a thick fog made it difficult for the Marine Rescue vessels to locate the small craft but they managed to do so in the end.
The passengers were taken to Motril and handed over to the National Police for further processing. The two prenant women and the young child were transferred to the Santa Ana hospital in Motril for a more thorough medical examination although all three are said to be in good health.
Meanwhile, a skiff carrying 11 illegal immigrants managed to make it to Cabo de Gata. The boat had been spotted earlier by a merchant vessel and the Guardia Civil were on hand to bid the new arrivals, all Algerian nationals, a hearty welcome to Spain.