CEOAFRICA gathered that sea and air patrols is on-going in Italy following the deaths of hundreds of migrants sailing in overcrowded boats from North Africa.

According to Prime Minister Enrico Letta, "air and naval package" would start on south of Sicily.

 Defence Minister, Mario Mauro also said Italy intended to triple its presence in the southern Mediterranean saying it had become necessary stop these shipwrecks in the Mediterranean.

Coastguard and Border police vessels, the Italian navy currently have three ships supported by four helicopters patrolling the area. It can also call on two surveillance aircraft with night-vision capabilities.

 Italy has previously called for EU help in dealing with the thousands of desperate migrants who wash up on its beaches every year. Many are families fleeing war and poverty in Africa and the Middle East who hope for a better life in Europe.

But the recent loss of life has led to further calls for EU action. According to the UN, some 32,000 migrants have arrived in Malta and Italy this year.